I need some clarity

If you are not already using a Siemens 7308, maybe you should try. My brother have the same CD player (with the same OP-Amp upgrade) and his sounds very detailed and articulate. Soundstage was bigger too compared when he was using a Jan tubes.

Also, on my own experience, try a Nordost IC or speaker cables, or a Silver type interconnect like what Tireguy suggested. They are very good in giving a "bright" edge to any system that I hook them up.

Hope this helps

I agree...try new cables. Analysis Plus will brighten the highs a notch or two...I would definitly give them a try before you commit to anything else. Try usedcables.com to audition some.

I like the Siemens tube idea, but honestly don't think it will get you where you want to be. My guess is your room has a dropped ceiling 2 beds (possibly bunked), carpeted floors and possibly drapes. You have too much high frequency absorption relative to everything else. the midrange sounds okay in a small space because there is very little affecting it, but placement of the high frequency absorption could go a long way to getting better sound (realizing it's unlikely you can through your roommates' bed in the hall). Your speakers have more than 30 percent of their energy radiated from the back, so in your case, have a good hard surface behind them, this will accentuate the high frequencies and help balance the situation.

Magnapan MMGs? Are those the cheapy ones? I owned them in the mid eighties -paid $550.00 or so new... I was never satisfied with their detail either. I visited an audio store in "the valley" when living in L.A. where I heard some Conrad-Johnson "Synthesis" speakers (no longer made) that made me feel like someone had pulled cotton wads out of me ears! Truly high-end sound. Find some new speakers (with first-order crossovers -of course). -Think this will do the trick.

try experimenting with different upgrade AC power cords on any / all components that have detachable cords. Every cord sounds different, & they don't even perform in exactly the same way when placed on different components. Try out some different silver cords, cables, & speaker wire. Silver can definitely add some zip to a lackluster combo.