What to do next . . .?

if you ONLY use digital sources, I would look for a DAC with volume or level controls and run the DX-1 into that unit bypassing the Acurus pre altogther.

EAD dacs are highly thought of to this day as well as some others. There are some new DAC's with volume controls as well, many are made in China so you must be selective regarding quality and reputation.

Jeff

I disagree with all the previous posters. At this level, the source is not going to make a huge difference. There is not a huge lot of differences in digital sources.

Based on your equipment, maximum bang for the buck will be to upgrade your preamp. Since you have a CJ amp, pick up a used CJ tubes preamp (Premier 17LS2 is pretty good), and be prepared for a big difference.

If you don't want to change the preamp, change the speakers. But digital source is the last thing I would change.

As a sidenote, why don't you swap out the Cal audio cd player for a $30 dvd player from wal mart and see the amount of difference it makes. You will be only out of $30 and if you feel there is a huge difference between the $30 CD player and your Cal audio, then go ahead and get a better digital player, as recommended by some of the posters above.

Let me get this straight ... you own both the Denon and Cal audio, and yet you ask which is better to a bunch of folks on Audiogon.

Don't you think you should let your ears decide ? If you cannot form an opinion by listening to both the pieces, then you are making it too difficult. If something is better, it should be obvious. If not, save your money till you hear something that obvious.

"Let me get this straight ... you own both the Denon and Cal audio, and yet you ask which is better to a bunch of folks on Audiogon."

We'll - yes. Last night I tried the Denon unit. I can't say I heard any really noticable difference. I think the Denon was a bit more laid back and thin vs. the CAL, but remember I've been listening to the CAL for 15 years! The CAL sounded a bit more full. And in this sport there isn't a lot of other people around here to hear their systems for comparison. My listening room is only 12x12 to top that off so that isn't helping. Not to mention I've had the whole system in a closet for the past 5 years boxed up. So while the design and technology has been improving Im not sure just how it has improved and which components would match my others. I read the posts on this site and man there are ALOT of differing opinions, add to that all the mix of different equipment and how it acts on one another and you have another quagmire to sort through.

So I thought asking the question would get me pointed on the right direction.

A 12 x 12 room is your problem. I would also support Schipo and state your next move should be to exam the room. If you can negotiate a different listening room in the house, please do so. Next treat the room.

Good luck,
D