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The next step to a better system

Hi everyone

I have been putting together a system for the last few years and need some of your wise and varied knowledge to help me take the next step.

My current system is

Harman Kardon HK990 intergrated

Revel F52 speakers

SVS PB12 NSD Sub

VPI Aries Scout with an Ortofon 2m Bronze mm cart

Herron VTPH 1mm phono preamp

Onkyo CDP DXC390

Belden BJC LC-1 interconnects

12 gauge, 87 strand, oxygen free copper speaker cables

Every step I've taken so far has lead me to a better audio listening place. 

I would also like to figure out the best way to introduce a good digital music source into my system. Currently I just hook up my smart phone through an Aux on the HK990 and listen to Pandora and Spotify. 

And of course I would like to improve on the analogue side of my system.

So any guidance would be helpful.

Thank for your time and knowledge

meambler
milpai's avatar
milpai
2,434 posts
 
meambler,
You might not like my answer, since it will not answer your digital or analog side. I have found that two of the biggest improvements that you can get in a system are:
1. Proper AND precise placements of loudspeakers in the room
2. Room treatment

Have you done these before you move on buy expensive equipment?
meambler OP
102 posts
 
Hi Milpai,

I'm open to all suggestions.

I have done a lot of research concerning speaker placement and have spent the time experimenting with different placements. The one constant being that the distance between the speakers is the same as the distance from the speakers to my listening position.  

The room is 24' x 15' with 9' drop ceiling. I don't have a lot of bare walls. There are canvas paintings,  Bookcases, plants, wall to wall berber carpeting over wood floors. It's on a second floor. The speakers are spiked and on painted particular board slightly larger then the base of the speakers. There is lots of wood / fabric furniture in the room and the windows have sheers and drapes.

asvjerry's avatar
asvjerry
4,846 posts
 
Since you're a Spotify fan, you might opt for running it on your 'puter instead of the phone.  It allows for using a good sound card and your choice of the available programs, both freeware and purchased.  You can choose from fairly sophisticated eq's, room correction with the addition of a calibrated mic, measurement routines....everything from the simple to the sublime.

And no interrupts when the phone rings....or whatever your phone does to get your attention...*G*
dentdog's avatar
dentdog
506 posts
 
Lyra Delos
mesch
3,529 posts
 
On the digital side, consider getting into computer audio and the purchase of an external DAC. Both Computer and your CDP could be run through the DAC. Essentially, you would be taking the same route you did with analog, replacing the internal phonostage with a better external one.

On the analog side, you may want to try a different cartridge, one that mates well with your tonearm and phonostage.
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