2. misc-audio
  3. 1206113732

What would you upgrade next ??

My system is finally sounding pretty good. Actually gives me goosebumps. But I'm always looking for the "weak link" in the system. I'd like opinions on what to upgrade next. I'm looking for retrieval of micro-details, air and space around each instrument and voice, 3D imaging, "palpability" of all the voices and instruments. Here is my system:
CDP: Arcam FMJ CD23T
Pre: ARC SP3c (complete upgrade/restoration at factory)
Pwr: ARC VT100 MkII (just re-tubed)
Spkrs: Acoustic Zen Adagio
Sub: Focal JM Labs SW900
Interconnect and Spkr Cables: Analysis Plus
Other: Speltz Autoformer set for 2X, use 8 ohms taps.

Thanks for your inputs.
MABonn
mabonn
ckoffend
684 posts
 
Preamp or CDP in my opinion. Of course the room is paramount over and above everything else. The preamp has a fair amount of room for improvements, but it will cost more than the amount you indicated would be acceptable for a DAC. I have not heard the Adagios, but have read very positive posts about them. Based on the posts, they don't seem like the week link to me.
tboooe's avatar
tboooe
1,009 posts
 
I would look at improvements in the following order:
1. Room treatments
2. A new source. Based on what you mentioned you are looking for, I would seriously look at Esoteric cd players.
3. Power source and power cords.
bowbow
123 posts
 
Looks like there is a consensus that you should focus on tweeking the system for now.
I agree.
eldartford
4,262 posts
 
Question...Why do people think that a D/A converter in an outboard chassis is better than one built into a recent production CD player. There are just so many D/A modules built by outfits like Burr-Brown. What's inside these outboard DACs?
.
jaybo
4,478 posts
 
may audio is liquidating their castle speakers at ridiculous prices. the harlech is going for 1050 a pair. even a their list price of over 2500 they were extremely underpriced for their performance. they play ir all like they were made for it, and i've owned a pair for over 10 years and i'm still in disbelief comparing them to speakers costing many times more....a couple of which i own. i have no affiliation with may....just a tip for anyone looking for a literal steal in todays sea of expensive yet ordinary products.
More to discover