Newbie with "bright" system

Mraybeck, in answer to your question--there are a lot of fine preamps out there that you'd be happy with. I've enjoyed the BAT gear that I've owned, but there are many others that would work well. Classe and Pass Labs come to mind as two that you can probably find in your price range. But back to what I said originally--if all you're looking to do is take the edge off your system, used cables are a cheap way to experiment. I agree that stands and isolation devices are important in a high-end system, but I'm not sure they will address the brightness problem as well as cables and interconnects will. Good luck.

Thank you Dekay and MacM for your posts. I need to remind myself that my enthusiasm should be directed with a little patience and fiscal judgement. I am planning to order some Vibrapods tomorrow. I will play with those while I keep an eye out for some used Truthlinks. Hopefully, this will help maximize my system while I save for the rack and pre-amp. Does anyone know of some relatively cheap, non-invasive (live in apt) room treatments/tweeks? Thanks again. Mark

Mraybeck:
Try the vibrapods with MDF (or small particle board )on the CD and let us know how does it go...Good luck

Just a follow-up: First, I want to thank everyone for their input. It is encouraging to know that I am not embarking on this odyssey alone. I purchased the Vibrapods and am using them on my CDP -> AMAZING what $30 can do for you with the right information. Imaging and detail improved dramatically and the system sounds much more tonally correct with guitar and pianos (with which I am very familiar). Nonetheless, I was still plagued with some high-end harshness that brought on listening fatigue at moderate listening levels. Next, I just added some HT truthlink IC's from CDP to receiver (pre). I have only had them in the system for about 2 days, but my initial impression is that, while it does tame the "brightness" somewhat, I have lost a little of the "shimmer" and detail of cymbals and high-hats. Bass seems slightly improved, and my soudstage is significantly widened, especially with midrange/voice. I ended up purchasing the HT's (good price), but the dealer "cooked" them for me with his demo disc. Overall, I am very pleased with changes in sound quality. I have taken to heart the advice that I should seek to maximize my current system before adding to it. Next, I plan to provide a stable platform for my entire system (and stop stacking!!!) with a rack - considering Salamander Synergy/Archetype. Thanks again, and as before, any additional insight/suggestions welcome. Happy Listening, Mark

Mraybeck, I used the Truth-Links before upgrading to the Pro-Silway Mk II's. The PS II's have better detail and sparkle in the highs, but they cost more and I wasn't sure if they'd help the brightness problem as much as the Truth-Link's. But if you're ever looking for an upgrade, consider the PS II's. They lack the warmth of the TL's, but I like them better in my system overall.