Starting Over and I need your help


The more I read…….the more I become confused!…..Do I simply need to start over with more carefully selected components?

I currently own a Musical Paradise MP 301 III, Bluesound Node 2i, Omega 7 speakers, and a Rotel RCD 06 SE CD player. To me, this system sounds underwhelming, especially when streaming. I use Apple Music as a source but I am open to switching to another. I only play CDs and stream and do not see myself incorporating vinyl into the mix. Musical tastes are jazz and acoustic. The room size is smallish home office. By the way, I also own a Parasound Zamp that I currently don’t use because I do not have a preamp……should I sell or keep that?

I am willing to sell it all, if needed, to get better sound.  If you were me, what would you change or keep? My total budget would be under $3000 and by buying some used I bet you guys can help me figure out what I should pursue within Audiogon to purchase.

Many thanks in advance for your expertise and opinions!

Andy

Raleigh NC

 

 

 

wavendon

There are many options.  Schiit integrated, Hegel, Rogue to name a few.  If you like the speakers keep them.  The budget you listed doesn't leave you room for speakers.

Get a HI RES streaming service

Do not use volume on Bluesound as a preamp.  It bit strips and won't sound good unless you play it loud.

A sub is a good idea.  2 are better.

Amp, sub and streaming service is a good start, real good.

I agree with @daledeee1 's suggestions.   I tend to think long term and pay a little more now to save me money later.  I would buy a Hegel H190.  There are several out right now on all the sites including eBay.  I would target $2k. This integrated has a fantastic dac that you would need to spend much more to replicate as a standalone.  It is 150 wpc and will easily match with speakers up to $20+k and fill a larger space if needed.  I like Rythmik subs because the bass it fast and tight.  They are very reasonably priced new.  There are lots of quality REL subs and others around $500 in New condition on the sites currently.  U could pair that with new Magnepan LRS+ and be extremely happy.  You'll need some floor space for the Maggie's.  All in $3500.  A good used option is a pair of Goldenear Triton loudspeakers.  They are $5k speakers that sound like $10k speakers and are extremely well reviewed.  They have subs built in and could also serve as main speakers for a home theater if you ever want to set one up.  I think u can get these for $2k ish.  Both of these set ups give you full range sound.  In either scenario you would have to easily spend $10-12k new to achieve the sound from your $3.5-4k investment.

Thank you for taking the time to respond to my plea for help. Are there other lesser Hegel models that I should consider?

wavendon

I would stop trying to cheap out on your upgrades, otherwise your sound will never improve.....you have a comfortable budget, I would spend it.

Keep the Omega speakers, they are probably good enough for a $3,000 system; and the 94db sensitivity makes an easy load to drive. Same with the Node 2i outputting to your new Modi DAC, though if you are handy I would add the before mentioned LHY linear power supply ($279).

Dump your amplifier, there is nothing you can do to make it suitable. Now buy the best integrated you can afford with the remaining $2,800.....that is the only way to get to the next level. Dump Apple music, and get a Qobuz or Tidal account (I use Qobuz)....also connect the Node 2i directly to your ethernet output from your carrier's box if possible. Then you'll use the phone or iPad to control your music, but not stream

Replace the amplifier! You already have some very good recommendations for amplifier.....I would get an integrated amp, here are a few more:

Brand new Heaven 11 Billie MKII integrated amplifier ($1,900) - Has a tube preamp section, has enough inputs for you, and is very well reviewed by many.....I helped a friend put together a system with the Billie amp, and it really punches above it's weight. 120wpc into 8 ohms, 215 wpc into 4 ohms

Used Hegel H190 integrated amplifier ($2,100) - Recommended already several times, do not got with the H95, the H190 is much much better. Well reviewed, well thought of, and sounds great. 150wpc into 8 ohms, down to 2 ohm stable. Also can stream to the H190, to compare with your current gear

Schitt Ragnarock 2 ($1,100 in silver, $900 in black) - Well thought of, and a very good amplifier for the money.....I'd much prefer the Heaven 11 Billie or the Hegel H190, but the Ragnarock might be the best entry level amp.

Forgot to mention for the Schitt Ragnarock - 60 WPC into 8 ohms, 100 WPC into 4 ohms. Get the "Just An Amp" version.....the pricing above is for that version