What is my weak est link...? Suggestions please.

>>I would opine that none of the "audiophiles" here was actually helpful to 689 at all.

Viridian, this is close to rudeness. Please think again before you put off more people than you already did, especially when you yourself have started many threads asking for help. In other words, unless you can contribute positively, please refrain from flaming, thank you!

[soap box on]
On a related subject. I have noticed that many on this forum taking time to answer with just a one-liner like YMMV and nothing else (no suggestions at all), it is a pitiful waste of blog space.
[soap box off]

I'd partially concur to Viridian only with difference that one didn't have to mention the obvious lack of knowledge fact. Audiophiles (HAH! I'm not the one either, but definitely hobbyist) are very prone to lack of knowledge about their system (otherwise none would be looking for $3k speaker wires) therefore by default they would seek knowledge on forums, literature, online. Emphasizing this fact may seem more like a rage or jeopardy to the poster, but at the same time acknowledging one helped many of them/us to contest it by acquiring knowledge resources from here or elsewhere.

Just stumbled upon this thread after a year off this site.

I upgraded my amp with an MC352 and it has been a great addition to my system. I based this purchase off of many google searches from members of this site and it was very helpful. I would also like to thank those that responded to my original question with helpful remarks and quality direction; this has been especially appreciated in an every decreasing pool of hobbyist.

I would also like to add that several of the comments directed to my question showed this hobby at it's worst. And it is disappointing. I have no interest in defending my lack of experience, knowledge, or inability to articulate every variable required to gain a proper and non-biting response. It just takes the fun out of it guys.

When I have mastered a subject and someone ask basic, fundamental, or even flawed questions, I do not highlight their ignorance, but complement their initiative. In addition, I am excited that someone values what I know.

As far as the $3000 cable, I was not a serious. It was a failed attempt at humor as I tried to get to know you all.

For the inconsiderate few, don't make the good ones around here look bad.

Happy Holidays-

I don't know, the 3k cable idea was probably the most helpful advice you received. Personally, I'd get a tube preamp, or perhaps work on your source component! I have some ideas, I have 2 exemplar modified players in my system and I am very partial to them.