2. amps-preamps
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what will make the greatest differance in sound.

I can only replace one item at this time. My system consists of Martin Logan Prodigy speakers, ML 336, Monster 2.4 speaker cables, Magnum Dynalab Tuner, Monster interconnects, arc LS1 preamp, California Audio Labs icon/mkii cd player. Feed-back from an earlier forum suggested I replace the preamp, cables and cd player. But which one first? I am considering a ML preamp 380s at some point, would like to know if this will improve the currant configuration and sound?
electrostaticman
sdcampbell
2,136 posts
 
If you are planning to keep your Martin-Logan speakers (which are excellent), I think the place to start making changes is your preamp. After the speakers (which are transducers, and therefore the most subject to variations in sound between various types and models), the preamp is the most likely to impact the rest of your audio chain.
stehno
1,453 posts
 
I agree. Dump the arc but also the ML 336. There's much better out there for less $.

There is currently a used McCormack DNA-2 Rev A amp for sale in audiogon.com for $4200. An amp that few solid state amps can come close to. And ML's are not among them.

-IMO
no_money
638 posts
 
I agree with the pre-amp, but I just can't understand with your list of components how the ML 336 could be a weak spot? You would just be exchanging one excellent amp for another. At their performance level it really comes down to personal taste, no one is really right or wrong.
jfrech's avatar
jfrech
1,816 posts
 
Your on the right path...at some point garbage in gargage out...so I'd vote to start at the source. For the money, you CAL Icon is really good, I used to have one. But your speakers and amp are in a totally different league. One good option, if you are running mostly digital, is to go with a ML CD player. Sell the ARC and CAL, buy a 39 or 390s. Then, work on your cables, interconnect first, then speaker...

IMO...
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