advice before my head explodes...


I've been trying to upgrade my system for awhile now, but got distracted by other purchase decisions.... but that's another story. To give some background, I researched TV's for 2 years, after spending $3000 I realized I bought the wrong one a couple of months ago. I don't want to repeat that.

I currently have a Yamaha RXV-995 receiver and I'm using a Panasonic RP-56 DVD player for CD's. YES, I KNOW. Also, if you must know I'm using some hand-me-down Cerwin Vega D-5 speakers. So I'm in pretty bad shape as far this population is concerned I'm sure.

About 6 months ago, I nearly purchased Paradigm Studio 60's and Studio center. Then I lost out on a good deal on some Paradigm Active 40's and Active center.

Whatever speakers I buy, they will also be used for HT so the center and surrounds is important. But music performance is probably a little more important to me.

I've looked at a number of speakers but due to differnt stores with differnt rooms and different electronics... I have not reached many conclusions. My expected expenditure increased also. I hate to put a figure on it because VALUE is the most important factor to me, but let's say $3000 for mains, center, and either sub, surrounds, amp or cd player.

Any idea what I should upgrade first?
gunbunny
gunbunny(interesting moniker): i really can't answer your query but hope you'll consider having an mpeg made of your exploding head should such an event seem likely to occur. just a bit of morbid curiosity, don't you know. -cfb
I would highly recommend you looking at the PSB stable. They offer more than one line. I use one of the finest monitors in my main system, the Harbeth Compact 7ES, and also own and use some low end line PSB speakers in another system. They are an exceptional value in comparison. They are popular and can be found used or "B" stock here where you can get a lot of bang for your buck. Good luck. Charlie
Kelly- You sick audiophile you! Can't someone just have there head explode in peace and quiet with out the fear of having it broadcast on the net!! In any case if it makes it to the net I would like to see it.

I agree with everything everyone said already, but like Glen said, take your time, don't try to get everything done at once, chip away piece by piece. One day everything will come together and you'll be pleased with the conquest(audio is the same way, lol!). I think Paradigm is good stuff for the money as is B&W, but just be patient and wait for a good deal, there are plenty to be had you mind as well be one to get one of those deals. Heck my whole system is comprised of too good to be true deals, it only took 3 years! Good luck and enjoy!

~Tim
If you guys would like to see the technicolor (slo-motion) version of Cher's head exploding, Visit www.pistolrabbit.com

And please, do not confuse pistolrabbit.com with such imitators as gunbunny.com or glockhare.com.
I went to a small audio store today to listen to some Pro Ac and Soliloquy speakers. I liked the Soliloquy 5.3 ok, but it seemed to lack something, can't quite put my finger on it. For lack of a better term, I think the lower mids sounded a little flat.

I did however reserve a cd player when the next shipment comes in next week. It's a Cambridge Audio (500E I think?) for $400. I really couldn't tell much, if any difference between it and the $2500 player on the same rack.

For those wondering... "Gunbunny" is slang term used sometimes when referring to attack/fighter pilots in the military. I fly AH-64 Apaches.