SEEKING ADVICE: Which component would you upgrade first?


This is my first post, so take it easy on me!

I have a modest analog system and would like to get recommendations on which component you would upgrade first for the biggest impact. Please use the existing components as a gauge for my budget (+/- a few hundo).

About me: I'm music lover. I'm a musician and recording engineer. I have a decent collection of old and new records, CDs, and tapes, which I listen to regularly. I appreciate good sounding recordings and have the experience to identify good and bad, but I'm not interested in mortgaging my home to upgrade my system.

 

THE RIG

Receiver: Pioneer SX-680

Turntable: Pioneer PL-112D

Speakers: Yamaha NS-1 and Pioneer HPM-100

lukasread

Showing 1 response by mrmojo

A few options from someone who has been down your road recently. Not sure I would say any of these is the "right" way to go, but any of them will make an audible difference.

One, I don't have any experience with your receiver, but if you're thinking about upgrading your amp the NAD C316BEE is a great option. It brings that classic NAD class AB sound, and has a really good MM phono stage.

Two, I'll echo the previous post about upgrading your phono cart. A big improvement can be had by upgrading/updating to one of the Sumiko oyster carts, the Nagaoka MP series, or the AT VM that was previously named.

And third, if vinyl is your primary media, think about a record cleaner. I use the Record Doctor, which made a big difference in audible quality of my vinyl for not a huge investment. And if you play a lot of used vinyl, an inexpensive ultrasonic cleaner makes a remarkable difference. 

Good luck and enjoy the music!