Earlier this week, @Frank_Lee reminded me it has been a while since our last Sentinel update. So… here it is! The reason for the silence is simply from being lost in the project and having a THE MOST FUN ever in a product design. Being able to dig into every detail and add new levels of craftsmanship and nuance is a complete delight. We do plan to have a full product reveal in about 2 weeks time, but for now, here are some sneak peak photos of the current Sentinel Digital Director sitting on my desk.
The Sentinel Badge is a refined and ultra detailed accent that will have custom color and plating options. Seen here is “off the machine” quality with no buffing or polishing.
Those ultra fine details require new micro tooling and machining. Tool 74 as seen here is a 3 flute micro carbide endmill used for the finishing pass. At 0.020" (0.5mm) Diameter, the cutting edges are nearly imperceptible to the human eye.
A great example of the precision 5-axis machining in action. These finishes are straight from the CNC machine and smooth to the touch. Ready for anodizing.
Lastly, the Sentinel will be the first product to bear our refreshed logo and branding. Just another area to implement refined detail and precision machining.
I hope you enjoyed this look at the current prototypes. It will only get better as we continue to develop and push the Sentinel further. This is a passion project through and through and will likely stand as MSB’s magnum opus. With the completion of the Digital Director Chassis, my work begins on the Sentinel Analog Converter which will entail a much larger amp style chassis with a complex thermal design requirement. Time to get back to work, cheers!
I was told, even at the prototype stage, the sound is quite commanding and fulfilling, worthy of the name. It’s a pity I wasn’t able to visit this time.
Alas! Another time perhaps. I assume you heard a report from our recent visitors? Very few people have been able to audition it. The performance of the electronics are indeed first and foremost our priority and they do not disappoint.
Hello Daniel Freancis,
hearing the Sentinel means there has to be a line of further components downstream the Sentinel, i. e. power amp, loudspeakers and some cables.
Can you tell us which downstream components you are using to show the quality of the Sentinel DAC?
Also, on a related note, Dustin just finished yet ANOTHER round of improvements in the sonic performance of the Sentinel DAC today. I was nearly shellshocked to hear such a step up in the realism at this stage of development. It was already the best we had ever heard, and is now uncanny in how convincing the performances have become. Absolutely dying to get this product on the road, can’t wait for you all to hear it. The Sentinel truly stands alone in our industry.
It’s a pity I wasn’t able to visit this time.
