2. amps-preamps
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Changes to older system

My system is the following, electronics and speakers bought from the store where I worked through college and grad school in the late 80s and early 90s:

- Cambridge Audio CXN v1

- NAD 1600 preamp

- NAD 2200PE amp

- B&W Matrix 3 Series 2 speakers 

- Monster Cable interconnects and speaker cable

Overall I still enjoy the sound, but I’ve always thought it was bright and bass shy.

Where should I start to upgrade this rig?

- First and most obvious choice is cabling, but what?

- Second, Quirk Audio can upgrade the amp and preamp, but is it better to do that or buy new?

I’d like to stay in the $2k range per component - used or new.

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holmz's avatar
holmz
2,328 posts
 

The easy and cheap stuff…

 

Overall I still enjoy the sound, but I’ve always thought it was bright and bass shy.

One could add a subwoofer.

A DSP would be a way to alter the frequency response.
Or something like a TDAI 3400 which can do mostly the <500 Hz part.

 

First and most obvious choice is cabling, but what?

It is easier for a cable to alter the bass to be less.

If the speakers have a rear port they could be moved closer to the wall. And depending on their pattern, one may be able to toe them out a bit??

rickysnit
79 posts
 

I’d throw these in, they’ll make the difference. I’d also find some thick OCC speaker cable, that will make a change for the better as well.

I’m a NAD fan too, always a great sound.

 

ghdprentice
6,864 posts
 

I would start with the preamp. I have been a long time appreciator of NAD and have owned a couple.

I think a tubed preamp could have a big impact / improvement on your system. In an attempt to recommend something cost effective… probably Rouge. A tubed preamp for sure.. an older Audio Research, VAC, or Conrad Johnson all sound like they would be really complementary.

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