2. analog
  3. 160217-128706

Dedicated Vinyl system next upgrade?

Hi. I love my system. I really do. I love vinyl and listen to vinyl nearly exclusively via “appointment listening”. I do Sometimes stream and listen while I walk or while working but I love just sitting and listening to my stereo. I believe I’ve arrived regarding finally achieving a great set up and have experienced that vinyl “magic” that audiophiles obsess over. I understand that limitations exist and a great stereo will reveal the quality of a recording - good or bad. The law a diminishing returns regarding  upgrading is something I’m mindful of. I don’t have endless funds to spend on upgrades. My question is - what should I consider upgrading next? Should I ditch the integrated amp considering I’m using an external phono stage? Or should I go with a better integrated amp? Or should I look at a better cartridge? Do I upgrade my turntable or just the tonearm? Do I upgrade the power cable on my amp? 
Here’s what I’m currently working with - and thanks for your thoughts/suggestions! 

Clear Audio Concept Turntable
W/ Hana SL cartridge 

Herron Audio VTPH-2a Phono Stage

Rogue Audio Cronus Magnum II integrated power amplifier 

Kimber Kable speaker wire and interconnects (I forget which model - an entry lever set - nothing crazy) 

Bowers and Wilkins 805 D3 stand mount loud speakers

Set of two stereo REL S/510 subs

paulgardner
tablejockey
3,935 posts
 
 "sure I will try something from Nordost next."

If you decide to go down that road, this is where to start
https://nordost.com/leif/blue-heaven/blue-heaven-power-cord.php
This power cord is where you get their upper level technology.

Tread lightly in the cable zone and keep your ears wide open.

My system is Nordost wall to speakers.
williewonka
3,082 posts
 
@paulgardner ...

Nordost was my first exposure to Power cables that made an easily discernible improvement
- I was in a demo room at a show with about 15 other audio guys
- so it was less than "ideal" listening conditions.-
- The Nordost guy played a track
- replaced ONE power cable on the source component
- replayed the track
- the difference was easily heard by everyone.

I also agree with @tablejockey..
Tread lightly in the cable zone and keep your ears wide open
I've trusted my ears for several years and have not been disappointed :-)

There are many options/brands looking to get your cash and trying to discern which ones actually provide significant benefits can be time consuming and expensive.

InAkustic - uses an exceptional geometry and metallurgy to achieve stunning results
Nordost - uses a different geometry and materials that also work exceptionally well

Unfortunately - all that development comes at a price point which may not suite every budget.

So keep an eye out for resale cables.
- Even older versions of cables from these two brands will offer great performance.

Regards - Steve





swann36's avatar
swann36
35 posts
 
@paulgardener ....looking forwards to reading what differences you hear with the new power cable when it arrives ....my suggestion is to try different things but only replace 1 thing at a time, that way you will know what impact each part has 
paulgardner OP
183 posts
 
@swann36 ok so I’ve spent some time with the new power cable. I really like it a lot! Best $50 upgrade I’ve ever made. I’m noticing a lower noise floor and a slightly tighter bass. It’s not dramatic but it’s definitely there. I really like your suggestion of replacing one thing at a time. Much easier to know what affect each change has on things. I’m thinking about swapping the power cable on the phono stage next!
More to discover