2. misc-audio
  3. 1383614601

what is my system's weakest link?

Hi,
I have put together and entry level system, and have been enjoying it for a while now and feel it might be time to step it up and upgrade.

My system consists of:
Thiel cs 1.5 speakers
rega brio-r integrated amp
pro ject debut III Turntable

I use my system for playing records almost exclusively

What component should I switch out/upgrade first?

I have been looking into Mcintosh c28 preamps as an option to switch my integrated with, had a chance to listen to a system with that c28 preamp and it sounded great , warm and very detailed, and it seems to be quite affordable

Any way any advice or tips on what my next move should be regarding new equipment that is relatively affordable ($600-$1300 price range) would be appreciated

thanks
Morey
moreytalmor
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,211 posts
 
Thiels are NOT warm, for that flavor, look elsewhere. Thiel have unique
charm. When fed right. Not inherently warm at all. More clean and
detailed, especially if fed right.
shakeydeal
979 posts
 
I agree that the Rega and the Thiels are probably not a good match. That said, I would probably replace the speakers first with something that is easier to drive. $1300.00 opens up a lot of possibilities on the used market. Specific recommendations would depend on your room and listening habits.

Shakey
stevecham
3,340 posts
 
Those Thiels would benefit from, and you would know it immediately, an amp supplying them with a stouter power supply.
buconero117
2,311 posts
 
the room, which it is for all systems.
frogman
7,442 posts
 
I have a different take on this. The "weakest link" is the Project tt. The biggest "problem" is the Thiel/Brio combo. The Brio is a nice integrated and while you mention wanting a new pre, what will you do about a power amp? The C28 is a good vintage pre, but do you really want to open up that can of worms (restoration/reliability of pre, new power amp)? If it were me and the goal were the best possible sound for +$1000 or so, I would build a new system around the Brio which is a solid integrated, get friendlier speakers (I like the Vandersteen suggestion) which you should be able to buy with what you get for the sale of the Thiels plus a little more, and GET A BETTER FRONT END; something like this (no affiliation):

http://app.audiogon.com/listings/turntables-vpi-traveler-v1-2013-11-06-analog-90039

or even better:

http://app.audiogon.com/listings/turntables-exquisite-well-tempered-lab-record-player-optional-dust-cover-with-marigo-audio-lab-p-2013-11-02-analog-94925-corte-madera-ca

I think you will have infinitely more satisfying sound this way. Good luck.
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