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Upgrade Path: CDP or Preamp

Howdy,
I'm a little perplexed. I've got the upgrade bug and I'm not sure how to proceed. I would like to augment my system by replacing either the CDP or the preamp. I'm not sure which one will improve the system's sound the most and give me the best sonic improvement for my money. I, of course, can replace one then the other, but which one should I replace first? For auguments sake my budget is around 1000 bucks for either component. I love jazz and of course a variety of current and classic rock. I mostly listen to cd's but I do have a turntable and a bunch of albums (these are less convenient to use since they've been relegated to the basement). I also use the tuner quite a bit for backround listening (the tuner in my preamp is poor, but I have a classic Mitsubishi analog tuner in another system I would use when I replaced the preamp). Overall the sound is good, minus the tuner. I know it can be better. Any suggestions would be welcome. Thanks in advance for your responses.

My system:
Denon DCM 370 changer sitting on a set of Vibrapods
Music Hall MMF 7 TT w/ Goldring Eroica Cartridge
Creek OBH 8SE MM phono preamp
B&K PT3 preamp/tuner
Odyssey Stratos amp w/ cap upgrade
B&W CDM 9NT's
Van Den Hul D102 III IC's connecting cdp to pre to amp
Monster something or other connecting phono pre to preamp
Monster 12 gauge speaker wire.
hammergjh
nudaddy
13 posts
 
My feelings are the PREAMP as THE most important component in a system. It will imprint its "signature" on all components and more importantly, if it is an upgrade, afford you the better opportunity to evaluate the shortcomings of your source material. Decide what type of features and sound you are shooting for (tube vs. ss) in your price range, since for 1000, its not the ultimate in neutrality and then consider used vs. new...

Used suggestions: CJ, Audible Illusions, Quicksilver... (yes a bias towards tubes, pun semi-intended)

New? Start looking.........
slappy
903 posts
 
I think you should go for the CD player first. That pre-amp might suprise you.
I got a real crappy Pre-amp, and a "Decent" amp, and some crappy speakers.
The only thing that makes it listenable is the Panasonic DV-A7 DVD-A player. Best CD player ive ever owned.

WHen i hook any other CDP up it sounds like straight crap!

definatly CD player.
onhwy61's avatar
onhwy61
5,218 posts
 
I have your CD player in my bedroom system and it's a fairly good product. Changing it won't result in any major improvement in your system. As a matter of fact, your system is very well balanced with no glaring weak link. You really would be better off not chaning anything and instead focusing on perfecting your speaker positioning and other related setup issues. Read this other posting call The Power of Positioning to get some ideas.

If you must change something, then focus on your cables and possible a power conditioner. And you don't have to spend alot of money. Good quality cables do not have to be expensive! Try a place like the Cable Co. which allows you to sample a large selection of products before you buy.

Best of luck!
gaudio_eek
312 posts
 
I second the CDP recommendation. Jolida 100, Music Hall CD25, Rega Planet 2000 (not Jupiter) and perhaps CEC CD3300 (new at Audio Advisor, CEC makes good gear) can be good candidates.
jayctoy's avatar
jayctoy
4,061 posts
 
I agree with the Jolida CDP very good choice.
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