How to identify my weakest link?


I really love my Hi-Fi system. It makes me real happy. It sounds so good but lately I’ve been feeling like I’d like to try something new. But what would I upgrade? How do I identify the weakest link? My gut tells me I should be looking at upgrading my amp but maybe not? If I do upgrade the amp I’d like to stay with an integrated amp due to space constraints. Any recommendations? Here’s where I’m currently at. I’m only interested in playing records on this system so no digital. 

Hana SL Moving Coil cartridge

Clearaudio Ovation w/ Magnify tonearm

Herron Audio VTPH-2A Phono Preamp

Rogue Audio Cronus Magnum II integrated - tubes rolled from stock JJs to Gold Lion 12AX7 and 12AU7s with a Brimer 12AU7 in the center position. 

Speakers are B&W 805d3 stand mounts with a pair of REL S/510 subs.

Kimber Kable speaker, power cables and interconnects. 

 

I should also mention that I’ve been seriously considering pulling the trigger on a Kiseki Purple Heart cartridge, although $3500 is a lot for a cartridge. Would definitely take the leap if I could find one for a little less. Any ideas where I might find a “deal”? LOL

Thanks in advance for any ideas provided here. Love reading AG threads!
 

 

paulgardner

Weakest link? Would be easy to say "Kimber". 

But, not so fast! My view on the weakest link is you examine every aspect of the system. Not just the major components. Then you study your options. Then you look at what can be done to get the most improvement for the least cost. 

If everything is not on something at least as good a Nobsound springs then that is your weakest link. If you want to do better, which at your level you should, then Townshend Podiums under the speakers, Pods everywhere else. Huge improvement. Bigger than any component upgrade. 

I would also look at Synergistic PHT on the cart, HFT on the speakers. Purple fuse in the Herron. 

I've done all this stuff, even have the same Herron, and know whereof I speak. Some of this stuff like the fuse you will get so much benefit from so little cost you will not believe. Podiums cost a lot but the improvement is totally in line with what you get. Search around you will see.

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