System assessment...


Just retired...I have the time and interest to consider system upgrades. Although I have some very nice gear, I'm not sure about the synergy of the system as a whole. My system has been assembled over many years, gradualy making upgrades and improvements. Sadly, all changes have been done through thorough research, and educated risk taking.. I don't have access to a brick and mortar shop, a 5 hour drive to Chicago or Twin Cities... 

I'm looking for opinions regarding my system. Do I have components that don't necessarily complement each other based upon others experience and opinions. I'm open to stepping back and rethinking the entire system if necessary. Below is a list of my components and speakers. 

Aestthetix, Mimas , integrated w/DAC 

Jay;s Audio M2 transport

VPI Prime w/ Shyla cart

Manley Chinook, Upscale Audio Special, phono

KEF ref. 1 (not Meta)

(2) REL SHO S/3 subs

Silversmith Fidelium speaker cables

My other cables are a hodgepodge  collection of  budget and midrange quality.

Any observations?

Thanks.

 

larseand

@larseand it depends what your objective is. 
You can improve the sound of your system or add a streamer and gain access to  pretty much unlimited music library. Or do both. Depends on your budget. 
 

You have an amazing CD transport and a weak link with an integrated amp inbuilt DAC. You will have to buy a high end streamer to match the sound quality of that transport. 
Or get an outboard DAC and bump the performance of your CD playback up a few notches. 
 

If you like the speakers there’s no reason to switch them out. 

"I don’t care what anyone on A’gon says,you can not get natural warmth from speakers with metal drivers!
Dump the beer cans & get speakers with natural materials.."

And here I am thinking that metals are natural materials.

I learn so much here...

I've always questioned the DAC board on the integrated. It was a $1200 uncharge when the amp was built for me, I have always regreted not going a different direction... 

No regrets.  If you want to keep the amp, you can always add an upgraded external dac.  And if you’re like me, you may prefer vinyl as your primary source for serious listening anyway.  

Nice system, if you come to Chicago visit Quintessence Audio, great store with 3 rooms and systems in each room based on Hifi tiers, I also extend an invite to come hear my system , I’m in a Chicago suburb, also retired now 6 years. I’ve built my system on a synergy approach and have enjoyed it very much. Also maybe you could come to Axpona in April 2025, in Schaumburg, best way to see and hear many systems. Good luck on your search.