Help me with the upgrade path


Over the last 12 months, I spent some significant (at least for me) dough on new speakers (Bowers and Wilkins CM10), amplifier (Parasound A21), and Digital Preamp + DAC (Cambridge Audio Azure 851D). I find myself listening mostly to digital content (CDs converted to digital via iTunes or Tidal --> Apple TV --> Azure DAC). I had been planning to upgrade the other components in the chain but wanted to let the $$$ shock sink in before splurging further.

So this year I’m allowing myself just one more upgrade for at least another year. Given the fact that I am using Apple TV, which is not considered the best choice for music, and non-expensive Audioquest speaker wires (I think I paid around $75 for an 8-foot pair), I wonder where I should put my money.

1. Replace Apple TV? I like the Bluesound Node 2 which sells for about $499

2. Better speaker wires? Leaning toward Clear Day Shotguns

3. Better power cords for the amplifier and DAC? No idea which ones would be a good fit for the A21

I understand that there are too many varying factors in determining the best upgrade, and too many system dependent variables, etc. -- but still some feedback would be great.
128x128arafiq
I agree, AppleTV is probably your weakest link.
But, I must ask, are you noticing anything lacking in your sound reproduction that is making you consider an upgrade?
@arafiq  What stand/table or whatever are your components placed on?  It is often amazing how reducing vibrations/resonances to and within your components yields a significant sonic benefit.  This can be done very effectively in a cost effective manner.

Thanks for the feedback, guys. Really appreciate it.

I'm also seriously considering Acoustic Zen Santori. Quite a number of members at audiogon (whose opinion I value very highly) have also recommended AZ Santori. 

As for Apple TV, I was almost ready to pull the plug on a Bluesound Node, but then I read another thread on agon where the users were really not able to tell much of a difference. So, now I'm even more confused :)


@auxinput - thanks for the Oppo suggestion. I never thought of that before. I need to do some further research to see how it stacks up against Bluesound. If the sound quality is the same, then it's tempting to score a great blue ray player at the same time.