What's my best upgrade options


Hello Audiogon forum,

I have an opportunity to upgrade something, but I'm unsure what the best option would be.  I just got a pair of Magico A5s, and they were a huge upgrade to my system.  I think what I'm looking for is more clarity, more crystal clear detail, maybe lower noise floor, if that makes sense.  I have an ARC Ref 150, PS audio BHK pre and stellar phono pre.  My sources are a Rega P3 with an older Ortofon MC 30 and a Cary audio CD500 cd player.  My cables are a mix of whatever I got from a dealer buying complete systems a long time ago, and some i've bought since.  I also have a surge protector I run everything thru, except the amp, I run it directly into the wall.

My options are a PS audio power conditioner, a rega P6 with newer ortofon MC cartridge, maybe a PS audio CD player or jay's audio CD player.  I could also get better speaker cable, and / or XLRs.

Thanks y'all.  1st post!

dothebluecolts
Post removed 

I'll throw my hat in the ring.  Working off your desire for "more clarity, more crystal clear detail, maybe lower noise floor".  The TT/cart recommendations are spot on.

You didn't mention what everything sits on.  A Quadraspire SVT stand will clean up a lot and give a lower noise floor.  Puritan Labs power conditions will clean up a lot and give a lower noise floor. 

That foundation will allow better assessment and appreciation of further upgrades.  Until vibration and power nasties are addressed, you will be spinning your wheels somewhat.  Have fun on your journey.

@squared80 -

"Whatever you do, don't waste your money on cables or power cords. As long as you've got OFC cables, nothing you buy will change the sound AT ALL, save for longer runs that may need 12AWG instead of 14/16AWG."

         Yet another example of willful ignorance?  OR- is it (actually) ignorance of the truth/facts/science, gleaned since the 1800's, regarding electricity?

                                Either way: worthy of only one, "tsk!"

The real question is if squared comments are based on experience or conjecture. My guess is that he has no actual basis for this opinion.