rowland 302 v. krell 400..VTL preamp v. BATVK51SE

I agree with the above. I would use cables that are very neutral and not rolled off (Cardas Golden Reference or Neutral Reference would be an excellent choice) and consider changing out the front end for something else (Wadia, Sony SACD, etc).

I have to disagree with Philb7777 that you should try Transparent cables versus the Cardas as I have found the Cardas Dark sounding and will make the WP7's (which I also own) harsh. Transparent Ultra MM (or Reference with XL) will tighten up the focus of the bass considerably.

I just tried the Rowland Synergy IIi with a pair of Rowland 201's(these are low end compared to the 302) and the new rowland amps on my WP7's and these are so smooth sounding but seem a little lighter in the bass than my Lamm's. I'm buying the preamp but waiting to try the higher end Rowlands in my system. These new amps are deceiving as I think I played my music louder with the Rowlands because they are so amazing.

Michael - The 302 will improve significantly over the next month, including in the bass department.

Hey, if you have brand new equipment, JFZ is right. Hold off for a month or two before making any changes. If you WP 7's are new...give it 90 days. Things will open up if not broken in...

I think your cdp is the weaker, and more limiting link.

A Linn Unidisk, Wadia 861, or Meitner gear would give you noticable improvement.

I wouldn't pay up for transparent cables either....