Looking to upgrade my setup.


Hi y'all! I'm pretty much a rookie when it comes to high end audio. As a musician my ears are pretty tuned but I only recently have gained appreciation to potentials of audio systems. Currently I'm running a pair of Energy cb-20 bookshelves through an entry level Denon reciever. I also have an m and k double 12" sub. The problem I have with it is that the highs seem rather harsh and it is lacking mid bass. I'm hoping to get a system with smoother highs and more punch an the snares and kick drums. Does anyone have any recommendations as far as a new amp and speakers? I really like the sub so I'd like something that wont be drowned out by the m&k beast. Thanks!
rolsson
Hello Rolsson - A budget will be helpful, and also details about your room, music preferences, how loud you listen, etc. Are there limits as to the size of the speakers, placement?
You might start by looking through member's systems to get ideas.
I like NAD integrated amps for budget systems. There are plenty of used units to choose from. As for speakers, if you keep your sub, I suggest staying with bookshelves because they are more fexible. Look at NHT (super zeros) or Usher's. They seem to match well with subs. Also, dont forget to use good cables and speaker wire, which can help tame bright highs. Also, check the input level of your sub-you might be able to turn it down to prevent booming and obscuring the mids. If you are still suffering from bright highs, perhaps you should look into getting a turntable because budget cd players have a reputation for being bright. Cheers.
Getting a Peachtree iDecco is not a bad place to start. It has a nice DAC, headphone amp, preamp, iPod dock, and a decent 30W stereo power amp in one cabinet. It doesn't have a ton of power, but makes a great starting point. Get that and speakers first, then upgrade the power amp and just use the iDecco as a preamp/DAC. Then when you upgrade your Preamp, it's still a nice DAC and headphone amp. I use one of these as an all-in-one bedroom system - it's great. They're only $800 right now; I'd say that's a good buy even if you only end up using it as a DAC.

Scour here and eBay for a used Adcom GFA-5500 or 5802 for a really solid power amp that will drive just about anything. Aim for ~400 for the 5500 and double that for the 5802.

I'd look for a Conrad Johnson PV-5 to use as a preamp if you decide to avoid the Peachtree for some reason. Jump on one if you can find it for about $700. Seriously.

What's your current source, and what were you thinking for a budget?