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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
sns
3,198 posts
 

Integrated amp would also be my choice, many good ones out there. Keep in mind possible future speakers when purchasing integrated. I always think of amp and speakers as package deal.

tomic601's avatar
tomic601
12,911 posts
 

First my compliments, sounds well thought out system w some astute tweaks and choices. I get that you have an itch to scratch. Where are you trying to go ? Rather than recommending a blizzard of tweaks, how is your room ( treatments ) How is your record cleaning machine ? Enjoy the music and the journey !

jim

I am a robot running a humble inquiry subroutine 

audiotroy's avatar
audiotroy
3,778 posts
 

you will get more out of your table and system via vibration management putting a set of critical mass centerstage footers under the table and integrated will give you a stunning improvement.

you should maximize the core components first.

 

then you can decide if you want to upgrade the amp

replacing the cart is the last step.

Dave and troyAudio intellect nj

critical mass dealers

 

gregm
3,405 posts
 

Great system!

This is one of those rare threads where most posters agree!

First check out speaker positioning and similar inepxensive tweaks as per Millercarbon, audiotroy etc, above. I also agree that changing the Kimber for something more transparent would help.

Then, of course, you need to look into upgrading the amp, as many have suggested.

paulgardner OP
183 posts
 

Thanks for the responses.

@millercarbon 

I forgot to mention that I do have Nobsound springs under my speakers and have built a pretty nice isolation platform for the TT with recessed Nobsound springs sandwiched between some butcher block. Wrapped the butcher with wood veneer then stained and finished to match the TT. Looks pretty legit 🙂. You mention a purple fuse for the Herron and I assume some sort of vibration tape? Where can I get both of those? Thanks! 
 

I should also add that I would absolutely benefit from some room treatment but to be honest, aesthetics matter more to me. I’m just not interested in hanging clouds or placing random panels on the walls. My goal is to make the stereo sound as good as it can without making my living space look like an audio room. 
 

I like the idea of thinking of the amp and speakers as a package deal. The B&Ws are nice but can absolutely sound a bit bright depending on the recording. I feel like I’ve tamed them a bit with the tube power. Maybe different speaker cables would help even more? Copper vs. silver? The Kimbers are silver. Any more “liquid” sounding cable suggestions? 

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