2. amps-preamps
  3. 1404789005

Seeking more 3d imaging, deeper/wider soundstage

I'm considering replacing either my amp or my pre. My system is profiled in my system link. Which do you think would improve soundstage/imaging more:
Replace the P3? I'd consider used McCormack, or a passive line stage, but my amp clips at 5v, which is what my DAC puts out when using the XLR outputs, and I'd like to try those someday...not sure a passive is a good fit for my system? Plus I require a remote. That's a deal breaker.
Replace the Rotel RB-1080? I'd consider parasound (a21 is a bit too pricey for me), used McCormack, odyssey, maybe even older krell or classe. I want XLR inputs tho.
Budget is $900-$1200 for either. Music spans the full gamut, excluding hip hop and country. Room is small, 12x12x8. I'm going to throw up some affordable foam acoustic absorption this summer (foam factory). Thnx in advance.
realremo
realremo OP
460 posts
 
Minorl - a few quick ones that are in constant rotation on my system, I doubt many here have heard of these artists (mostly ambient and IDM here, be warned):
"Tesseract Redux" from Coppice Halifax's Outward residence
"Devil and the Deed" from Yeasayer's Fragrant World
"Terraforming" from Hans Zimmer's Man of Steel soundtrack
"Numb" from Andy Stott's Luxury Problems
"Bardo Thodol" from Demdike Stare's Tryptych (Disc 2)
"Place Gun To Head Airlines" From Proem's You Shall Have Ever Been (Disc 2)
"Lawk" from Funkarma's Solid State
bobnegi
25 posts
 
Sorry to offend you with my settle down comment, what I meant was that you should wait for the treatments to arrive before buying new gear, that is all...most of us, myself included are a fairly impatient bunch. Your timelines are measured in months and years, I wish I had that kind of patience!
saki70
907 posts
 
Realremo ;
It is my guess that you may not get the depth that you want in that small room . In my experience , you need a decent amount of space behind the speakers , 5 feet or more .
Try seeking other attributes in the music that you can improve upon and enjoy .

Happy Tunes
tboooe's avatar
tboooe
1,009 posts
 
I believe Saki70 is right. Every system I heard with really depth was in a fairly large room with the speakers pulled out from the front wall quite a bit. I also have a small room (10x11) so I know the situation well.
ghosthouse's avatar
ghosthouse
4,319 posts
 
Realremo - Thanks for the music suggestions. Playing CoppiceHalifax now (Pawley's Island). Sounds great. Going to try the others you suggested as well.
More to discover