2. digital
  3. 1342823274

What next?

I've been trying to figure out what should be my next investment and not really coming up with a clear way forward.

I'm actually really happy with the way it sounds, but I subscribe to the theory that there's usually some incremental improvement to be had somewhere.

The only weaknesses I can think of are that a) the low bass could use a little tightening up, b) the soundstage could be slightly deeper and wider.

I heard a friend's DAC in my system that, while I preferred everything else about mine, had tighter, faster low end. Soundstage is really just a guess, I could have room limitations.

In terms of investing, I'm thinking next up will be under $1k. Down the road I may consider moving up the Aerial linen speakers or trying a set of Eidolons, and moving to Ayre separates.

I don't feel a burning need to spend the money, but, system assembly in its own right is a hobby (beyond just enjoying the sound) and activity keeps it invigorating.
joncourage
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
Speakers, speaker placement, room treatments, and finally EQ is the first course.

The second course should be eliminating issues with your source, first Jitter if it is a digital source, and second the compression/noise/distortion of your active preamp. Best to just get rid of the active Pre.

Either replace the active pre with a good transformer passive linestage Like Music First, or use computer audio and a DAC that can give you a really good volume control with no noise or distortion.

Computer audio will allow you to use software EQ that is totally transparent, unlike hardware EQ boxes, even those that are DSP-based.

Good EQ can elevate your system dramatically as well as squelching the room resonant modes.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
lewinskih01
912 posts
 
Jon,

I can't tell really well from your system pictures, but the speakers sure seem very close to the back wall. Are they rear-vented? How far are they from the side walls? I see your floor first reflection is covered by the carpet. Oftentimes placement/reflections affect soundstage. Have you experimented with that?

I learned a lot about accoustics and placement and have treated my room. My speakers are far from walls, reflections treated, etc. Last week I played with toeing in and suddenly something has changed for the good in a way I'm still wondering if my mind is making it up - and if so, great: sounds great and it's free! Anyway, my points is don't underestimated the impact of placement and treatment.

My two cents!
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
I'm actually really happy with the way it sounds, but I subscribe to the theory that there's usually some incremental improvement to be had somewhere.


LOL....you just sound bored and you have some money burning a hole in your pocket. Why not just buy some new software and enjoy the music???
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
Lewinski is correct. Typical speakers must be a minimum of 30 inches off the backwall to image properly and get decent bass. Dipole speakers more like 6 feet. Sidewall HF reflections should be reduced with furniture or Sonex etc.. Use a mirror or mirror and a laser pointer to find the right spot for these. The optimum listening position should not be in the center of the room, but rather a bit off-center away from the speakers.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
buconero117
2,311 posts
 
Investment? There is no such thing in buying any audio gear. Best you buy some Spanish government bonds and just enjoy the music.
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