Just an update on my first anniversary of deciding to keep the Walsh 2000s. Over the year, I have made numerous improvements to my system. I have added a new DAC (K-Works SupperBerry, a highly modded Beresford DAC), new digital cable, new preamp (McIntosh C220), custom cradle bases for the Ohms, and had my vintage Thorens 'table modified and fitted with a new cartridge (Denon DL-160). In each case, the 2000s allowed me to clearly hear the differences before and after. Even the difference in the upgraded digital cable, which I thought I would never be able to hear, was clearly and dramatically resolved by the Ohms. I went from a $20 digital cable to a $300 digital cable (K-Works Goldenheart Digital), and I can honestly say it was worth it.
In fact, there is almost no comparison between the sound I was getting a year ago and the sound I am getting today. It is miles better! The 2000s continue to delite and amaze me, and I am sure that future upgrades in associated gear will yield even more improvements.
I have been a member of the local audio club for about two years now, and have heard many different systems and speakers, some costing many multiples of the 2000s. While I have heard some great sound at these meetings, I never feel bad when I return home and fire up my Ohms. Of course, all these systems sound different, but as my electronics and cables have improved, I have narrowed the gap with those mega-buck systems considerably.
Kudos to John and his employees at Ohm - they have made it possible for me to enjoy champagne on a beer budget!