Nordost Valhalla

Thanks for your suggestions.

@Misternice- that's probably unnecessary as I am using a PS Audio P3 Mains Regen/PS Audio power cable...

@Akg ca- Indeed I am aware of their strengths because a lot of my music sounds great & this is the quandary... Yes I do have some inferior recordings & I'm happy to accept that but there are some which I know don't have specific frequency extremes; in this case a little too harsh in the upper mids, hence the dilemma.

Hi, infection...most wall recepticles do give off brightness, so you will have it coming through.At $200 plus the cover...its the cheapest upgrade, and will bring on every system...You wont know how good your system can be....it took mine up a few notches.

I recommend you try Wireworld Platinum Eclipse 7 XLR cable. This is all silver cable that does not sound harsh.

Although the listed price is high but there are a couple of online dealers that can give up to 40% discount. It should suit your need without breaking the bank.

Hi there...infection, I dont use a condioner.can you use the valhalla on the cd player.I use tara labs between pre and amp.Trial and error I suppose is the best way

There is a reason why XLR's can sound bright & edgy... it is because the noise removing/controlling circuitry removes 2nd order harmonics but leaves 3rd order harmonics. Unfortunately our ears like 2nd order harmonics but not 3rd order harmonics!

If unbalanced circuitry can control noise then unbalanced RCA ICs should sound superior to balanced XLR ICs... :)