Suggestions from all you wise ones

@freediver - assuming your question was directed to me, re-read my paragraph that begins with ’You should go hear some systems...’. I didn’t suggest that this was a substitute for live music- in fact, as my next sentences made clear, I think a big gap remains between live and reproduced.
So, by all means go to shows, I catch many here in Austin. But I also believe the home listening experience is different than live and if the OP has not been involved since 1974 (a point which he has since clarified), I was suggesting he get a chance to hear what a system today is capable of.

It seems to me that you are happy with your current setup. One thing not mentioned is what you use to play the ~4000 CDs. Possibilities exist for improvement in the digital arena without making other changes to your system.  What player do you use? does it have digital output?

There are several audio shops in the Chicago area. You should plan to visit some. One I have frequented in the past is Quintessence Audio on Dempster, in Morton Grove. Friendly staff, new and used products. 

How far is it from Milwaukee to Axpona?

golden210,

You have made contact with this forum. You have already received some good advice.

Axpona is next weekend !!!! I would try to attend it at least for one (1) day.

 I am going to meet Ralph Karsten of “Atmasphere “ since he will be modding the Technics SL1200G that I ordered Friday from HiFi  Heaven in Green Bay and according to tracking; Ralph will receive Monday.  Tri Mai will also be there and he will be building the Triplanar tonearm that will be mounted on the Technics TT. 

So, myself and I think the other posters are not sure where you would like to go. Axpona will let you see and hear so much gear. 

At 63 yrs , you sound like many at our age. We are listening alone. Friends have passed or are acting their age. Their passions have changed for whatever reason.  

PM me, if you think about coming to Axpona. We can have lunch. My music tastes are 70s / 80s R&R, but stretch far beyond just that.

 I am a vinyl guy, 3000 LPs / 83 CDs ; four of which are test or burn in CDs

Anyway, Welcome !!  Milwaukee is not that far away. Axpona is a good place to meet and should be a good time. It was great in 2016. And I have more skin in the game this time. Hopefully having my last TT built and meeting the people that are doing it. Come and join the fun.

Norb

Axpona is only a hour and half away. Sounds like a great reason for a road trip. I will try to make it.
Thanks for the tip.