Where do I go from here?


Hi,
I am trying to figure out what I should upgrade next for the most improvement. I listen to a lot of classical and a smattering of jazz, folk, rock, a ousting music.

My system is:
Cambridge azur 340c CD player
Cambridge azur 640a (using preamp outs)
Prima Luna 4 (el34 power amp)
Focal chorus 706v
Audio quest type 4 speaker cable and Ixos interconnects.

I am trying to figure out where my best bang for the buck would come from: front end, speakers, or dedicated pre. I am not really married to any one component at the moment.

So detaching is quite good, lows could be better but highs do sparkle and transients are quite nice.

Any advice or assistance would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks!
gustav1
I'm not too familiar with your components, but fwiw if it were me I'd try a few preamps and see what that does. Can't imagine using the pre section of an integrated is doing you any favors. Just make sure output impedance is a good match for your amp. Best of luck.
706V's are nice spealers but can be a bit bright.
I would first try some more neutral speaker cables and Ic's.
First thing that comes to mind are AudioArt copper ic's and Sc-5 speaker cable. Cheapest Anaylsis Plus models work good with Focals too.
I think it's time for a dedicated preamp. I'll bet the
Prima Luna sounds nice, and with a new preamp you may improve the bass and overall dynamics. Tube or SS keeping in mind to match the impedance with the amp.
A dedicated preamp would definitely be an upgrade, however I think the amp/speaker match is just OK. An 8 ohm speaker that dips to 3.8 ohms is not the best for a tube amp. Also, the 706v has been described as having bass power. If a speaker and amp don't match well, I think the bass suffers the most because it is the most demanding.

What does the system sound like using the 640a only with its power? Soundstage, highs, lows, dynamics?