Hi Norm,
I hear yah .... I'm not knocking your system, you have some
fine equipment there, on paper, but it's not paper we listen to.
I'm with Erik Squires and Optimize, the room is an extension
of your system, but perhaps you've already addressed that, if not, start there.
You may also consider running a designated circuit with appropriate grade wire
from your panel (12 AWG) into good quality plugs.
I like the Maggie's - - - but not that much. They seem to be
paired with Mac gear a lot (at Hi-Fi shows and retailers). One thing I'll say
for Mac gear is it's reliable, the Kalashnikova of audio.
Thing is they have a similar sound as well ..... dull. I spent an afternoon at Broadway
Sound in Vancouver listening to a pair of big Mac monos (model slips my mind)
and a pair of 3.7 Maggie's. The Mac's were running just about flat out, and I
thought - - - where's the beef. Like I said, I find Mac amps dull and uninvolving - - - but that just MHO.
You're in a bit of a pickle there Norm, if you're going to
move up the audio latter as opposed to a lateral move you're looking at some
pretty esoteric gear, which is not only pricey, but rare. Roberjerman suggested Quad 2905's, nice speaker, but Quads are like
Italian cars.
I wish I could be more suttle, but I can't (for your sake),
can the Mac gear! Go used.
Speakers: Martin Logan Quests/or Requests, $1500.00 and if
you have a big room the Prodigies.
Amp: Krell KSA 300S $3000-$4000, or Threshold SA12e, or Sim
Moon W10's $3000 - $4000.
Pre-Amp: C.A.T, or an Atma-Sphere MP-1 or MP-3, or Audion
Premier 2 box Silver Night. On a budget, a giant killer VTL Ultimate $2000.00.
One last thing - you may solve your issues with a phono cartridge, there I would suggest a Soundsmith Aida MKII.
Good luck & happy listening.