HOW DID YOU END UP WITH YOUR DREAM SYSTEM?

or years, my audio journey revolved around home theater systems. But at some point, I realized I wanted something more intimate, something that could truly immerse me in the magic of music. So, I took the plunge and shifted my focus entirely to a two-channel system.

It all started with an Italian ensemble—Unison Research electronics and Opera loudspeakers—paired with a DAC from Cary Audio. The sound was lively and enjoyable, but over time, I began noticing its limitations. It was like sipping good wine but knowing there’s a richer vintage out there.

The turning point came when I added my first turntable, a Michell Gyro SE. That humble addition cracked open a door to a new world of possibilities. I began exploring further, replacing my speakers with Magico S3 MK2s and upgrading my electronics to a full Luxman 900 series setup, while still holding onto the trusty Cary Audio DAC.

A few months later, my system evolved again. I added another Luxman M-900u power amplifier for bridge\mono-amping and swapped the turntable for a Brinkmann Bardo, complete with a Brinkmann Eddison II phono stage. The depth and clarity were thrilling, but something still felt incomplete.

That’s when I turned my attention to acoustics. I reimagined my room, repositioned the system, measured the space, and treated it with acoustic panels. The results were transformative—like adjusting the lens of a camera to bring everything into sharp focus.

Over the next year, my system matured. I kept the Luxman 900 series preamp and power amps, added a Luxman D-10X for CDs, upgraded to an MSB Premier DAC fed by a Melco N1, and took my turntable to new heights with the Brinkmann Balance. Each addition brought me closer to the sound I dreamed of.

Eventually, I moved on from the Magico S3 MK2 speakers, upgrading to the S3 2023. Then, less than two weeks ago, I reached a new pinnacle with the S5 2024.

Every change has been a revelation. Each new piece of equipment has uncovered layers of musicality I hadn’t thought possible, drawing me deeper into the artistry of sound.

This journey has been more than a hobby—it’s been a passion, a pursuit of perfection. And with each improvement, my excitement only grows, as if the music itself is thanking me for the effort.

@smerk i understand 100%. I have arrived at my final system.  No more chasing for me. I have a lot of money into my rig. But I enjoy it and I’m at a point to where even to get a little better I would have to spend a lot of money. I’m happy and I will allow this system to just play me music and be happy with it. That’s a great feeling.  If you are happy that’s all that matters. 

@exupgh12 it took me a while along this journey. I was blessed to find a company to work with that had the sound I was seeking.  We actually used my speaker and brand of speaker to test the electronics.  It has allowed me to pinpoint any defects and deficiencies in my system and let the designer fix them along the way.  I had someone in my home the other day for a demo and he had heard our electronics but not my speakers.  Few people have and he remarked how good they were and at 14 k they were a steal compared to all the ones he had heard.  We have to allow ourselves to be satisfied and when you get there we must remember to allow ourselves to enjoy. That’s what I’m doing.  Enjoying the concert in my home on the regular.  I’m glad you are at a great place. Keep enjoying. 

@squared80 i understand your point of view.  However, my journey has been different. I literally peaked the interest and gained the respect of our owner by simply pulling out cables of a show system and providing the ones that’s literally changed the sound of the system in a great way. I have literally tried almost everything.  It has allowed me to understand it’s not what they add but what they don’t take away. They should allow you to hear your speakers and your electronics in the best light. What has worked for you and me may not work for everyone.  Enjoy your journey and the music. Thanks for the responses. 

Once you have really good speakers and components everything matters.  Cables matter and your source matters even more. It’s like pouring clean water through a dirty water hose is the analogy I would use.