System too bassy - Primaluna & Usher


I'm looking for advice on how to tame my bass. Since upgrading my amp to the Primaluna Dialogue One from a low end Harmon Kardon, I've noticed my fatigue level from the bass has shortened my listening times drastically. That could also be because listening levels are higher because of the increased power. Regardless, I would like to tame the bass which these Ushers are known for.

THE SETUP:

Lossless Files
Apple TV > unknown decent quality optical cable to...
Rega Dac > low end Monster RCA cable to
Primaluna Dialogue One > $3 ft speaker cable to
Usher Be-718 speakers
VTI Metal stands

The room is 12' X 13' with one side open concept into the rest of the condo. The wall that the system is against is actually a couple of feet shorter because of the HVAC system, which puts one speaker in a corner.

I just got the Primaluna amp and I love the Ushers and do really like the Rega Dac. So I'm not willing to change those.

MY THOUGHTS:

I'm thinking of interconnects, speaker cables and room acoustics. I think room acoustics is a must regardless. Perhaps I do that first, then look at the total sound.

What are your thoughts?
deetothevee
Location, location, location! Don't spend a dime on 'stuff' until you have set up your speakers and listening chair as best possible. There have been a lot of posts on 'proper set up' and should be in the archives, both here and on AudioAsylum. Putting the speakers against the wall and or/a corner ALONE (And it appears you have done both!) could be causing your problem, but placing your listening chair is very important as well. Locating it in a bass node could cause excessive bass, albeit over a small frequency range.

Another issue to consider it the tubes you are using on the Primaluna, both small and large(power) tubes, which can make a big difference. FWIW if you haven't already tried them try some good linear 6550's or 6l6GC's, especially the latter if you want less bass but a good linear tone. I've used SED's and they are not fat! You might also try some Sovtek 12AX7LPS which have a fine mid-range and HF tone but are also not fat in the bass.
You have to get rid of those cheap cables and get something more solid core ..NOT stranded monster cable! ... THIS will make the biggest improvement in tightning up that bloated non defined bass you speak of. Dont even think about tube rolling until you fix this first. I would try Kimber,Morrow Audio, Nordost. Your speakers are awesome, hook them up with proper set of Bi-wires from Morrow Audio and your jaw will drop.Get a really nice Digital cable from SIGNALCABLE.com . Get some Morrow skr cable and A pair of Interconnects from the dac from Morrow as well . Pay for the break in and get some of the most amazing TRANSPARENT cables you will not be sorry.
Thank you everyone! In regards to positioning, I can play with toe in some more and see if that makes a difference. But I'm very limited in changing positioning, this set up is in my living room in my condo with my lady. It's already a blessing she's ok with having the primaluna on display on top of our fireplace unit. Needless to say, changing positioning is not an option.

I actually have a set of Sovtek tubes that I haven't tried yet that came with the amp. I'll have to check what kind they are.

My stands are 24 inches high. I plan to eventually get the RWS 708 Usher stands which should tighten the bass and is adjustable.

Great ideas!!

Mattmiller -
Are those brands you mentioned known for reducing bass? I do love sweet midrange which is why I got the speakers and amp. So I don't want to lose that. I like more bass but just not too much. Also, what are your thoughts on Audioquest products? SO you think transparent cables is my answer? Not looking for cables that "reduce" bass?

You mentioned bi-wiring. Isn't that only possible when you have 2 amps? I have an integrated.
This might give you some ideas, goes along with Mapman's suggestion relating to power !!!! I agree with Newbee's placement and tube suggestions and Mattmiller's wire statements. Where are your speakers positioned in relation to the front and side walls? System pics are helpful so people can observe the whole set up !!!!

http://www.stereophile.com/standloudspeakers/508ush/index.html
Here are pics of my setup. I can not move the speakers. After a lot of moving around this is where my lady and I agree to have everything.

https://www.dropbox.com/sh/p85esxsugw5svb4/Y_FSpWNMv1