2. amps-preamps
  3. 174626-141211

the cart or the horse?

I currently own a Parasound ZAMP, Denon PRA-1500 preamp, and Omega 7's speakers. I stream through a Bluesound Node 2i.  All this resides in a home office of approx 15x10. 

I am not happy with the sound and do not know which component to attack first. There is a lack of presence and body and the sound is well.......boring. I listen to jazz at low volumes and would like your opinion on what to work on first. 

Replace amp,preamp, or speakers? The cart or the horse? My budget is very modest but am willing to go step by step. 

All my best,

Andy

wavendon
dynacohum
654 posts
 

Black Ice F22 using EL84s will rid you of the SS mid-fi and that’s all you need. 
Also, turn up the volume a bit for more “engagement”!

vuch's avatar
vuch
136 posts
 

I recommend that you speak with a professional. Watch OCD HiFi Guy on YouTube. Mikey is very passionate about helping people get quality sonics from their systems. 

audioguy85's avatar
audioguy85
2,018 posts
 

A Sugden A21 class A may be a good match to your speakers, if you can swing $3250. the Border Patrol dac would also be nice, sounds more "analog" at least to me. All you need now is a turntable...😁

wavendon OP
13 posts
 

Wow...wow...wow  😀
I am very thankful to all of you for your thoughts and suggestions, it is very much appreciated. If something pops up on Audiogon that looks like a good fit for me please feel free to drop me a note.

All my best,

Andy

grinnell
1,110 posts
 

With those speakers as many have said a good tube amp.  Doesn't have to be super powerful.  I bought a used Decware Mini Torii ( $1100.00) to use with my 92b Ref 3A de Capos speakers.  it's plenty loud those Omegas should sing with 4 watts.

 

look around take you time and invest in some good clean used gear.

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