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How do I smooth out violins?

I have a decent system (bit of a mixed bag) but know that I can achieve a smoother, more integrated, and more relaxed massed violin sound. I listen to a ton of orchestral music and notice that massed violins in their upper registers (1500-3500 Hz) often jump out from the mix and sound a bit harsh, unlike what one hears live. Right now, I have the following:

Spendor SP1/2E
McCormick DNA-125 (original)
NAD 1600 (pre/tuner)
Marantz CD3000
Audioquest Sidewinder ICs
Audioquest Type 4

Would a tube pre help (maybe a AA M3A)? I'm thinking that the NAD may be the culprit. Any advice from those of you who have quested for "real" violin sound is very much appreciated.
bojack
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,417 posts
 
I once emailed Cardas regarding my harsh and forward sounding system and they recommended one of their cables that would make my system more laid-back. The reply was signed by George. (I assume G. Cardas).
I'll bet he is very familiar with these situations.
almarg's avatar
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almarg
9,670 posts
 
FYI, here is a review from 1990 of the Chesky CD I recommended earlier for use as a reference recording, by Robert Hesson of Stereophile.

Regards,
-- Al
opus88
530 posts
 
"...in reality, I think everyone uses cables somewhat to 'tune in' a collection of equipment to suit their personal musical tastes...In the end, I feel that many of us generally arrive at the same destination, though we take many different paths to get there. Since there is no one single cable that everyone agrees is perfectly neutral, I feel that such an animal, a "perfectly neutral cable", does not exist. Therefore we are all tuning to some extent."

I am in complete in agreement with you, John.
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jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
Hey Jeff, how are you doing my friend? It looks like there are better days ahead for your beloved Dodgers. I wish I could say the same for my Phillies. LOL. :)
opus88
530 posts
 
Hi John! I'm doin' just fine, thanks...And after all the dough they spent, Dem Bums had better do fine too. It's been far too long since they've looked like championship material. How 'bout if you and I negotiate a trade right now here on Audiogon? You give me and the Dodgers Cole Hamels and I'll give you and the Phils Aaron Harang (LOL)

Otherwise, I sincerely hope you're feeling fit and all is well with your family too...And here's to looking forward to a stellar season for the both of us.
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