2. misc-audio
  3. 175805-170096

Is it me? Will I ever be satisfied?

As we have become empty nesters, we put together or are putting together a nice dedicated two channel system consisting of B&W 804 D3, Levinson No. 333 ( this is an older amp 20+ years old), McIntosh C22 (just purchased) in which I have already upgraded the tubes, Linn Lp12 TT, Blue Sound for streaming.  I am using Transparent balanced cables and Transparent speaker cables - not sure of the exact model, but all Transparent cables are close to 20 years old as well.

My questions, while I think the system sounds good - even really good.  I don't think it sounds great.  I recently purchased the C22 to be used with the No. 333 which I replaced a McIntosh MA252, which i really like and use in another system, it didn't have enough power.  My room is our garage which we converted to a playroom years ago.  It is approximately 25' and 20' wide.  We sit about 12' from the speakers which are at one end of the room .. While I realize that this hobby or lifestyle can be never ending....  I am considering upgrading the cables next and last but not least, add a new Amp, McIntosh MC462 or MC312.

Wanted to get some feedback, thoughts, in site, advice what you experience, am I missing anything?  Thanks

goducks44
goducks44 OP
27 posts
 

More on the room. It is finished, carpet, pool table, chairs - 2 in the main listening position.  Books shelves, albums etc.  I currently have the speakers directly on the carpet - toed in.

I think I expected more when I brought in the Levinson amp and the new C22, I think with the price tag of the C22 I was going to be blown away.  Interesting comment regarding matching B&W & McIntosh. Many of the dealers in the NW carry both and push them together.

 

I really appreciate all the feedback and suggestions.  I am going to do some listening this weekend and journal pros & cons and what I feel is not meeting my expectations.

jackshew's avatar
jackshew
18 posts
 

So, and again not being critical, but having been a person who thought blue sound is good sounding… I would start there.

I see you do have a turntable as well, so you can compare the two sources. But both the streaming function and the DAC found in the blue S, are somewhat lacking. I ended up with a Lumin u1 and a Denafrips Venus DAC, night and say from the blue sound.

goducks44 OP
27 posts
 

I do realize that the Blue Sound is a weak link in the system.  

ricmech23
108 posts
 

Sounds like you need to play around with room acoustics. 

goducks44 OP
27 posts
 

Can you elaborate?  What have you done or recommend?
 

 

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