What would you upgrade next ??

Actually gives me goosebumps.
Mabon
3/21/08

Mabon, you say your system gives you goose bumps? Good God man! that is what is called "an emotionally involving system." That is what we all strive for and many do not achieve even having spent many thousands of dollars! You have what is called "synergy" with the components you've chosen. That my friend is worth holding on to. I would definitely keep the core of the system (amp /speakers) for sure. Your source would be the one area where you may want to focus. I'd suggest keeping the one you have (the Arcam) while auditioning other cdps head to head against it. Once you find a player that brings you more emotional involvement than the Arcam, then keep that and you're free to sell the Arcam if you choose. If you can afford to do this, then that's my advice. You're very fortunate to have put together the right components for the all important amp-speaker synergy. That's half the battle in my opinion.
Good listening!

Eldartford..
People like Mabonn are coming here to AudiogoN for answers.
All you are doing is posing more questions that have nothing to do with the Mabonn's question.
All this does is focus the attention on you unjustifiably.
This is also what a politician does to make themselves look smart, when in fact they know very little.

Mabonn...your system, by your own admission, is already special!

I have to agree, in theory and experience, with the others here that have recommended tweaking your room and speaker placement. Often there is so much unrealized potential in our equipment due to simply overlooking the basics.

Once that is done...take all the money you've saved and buy lots of music and a bottle of your favorite beverage then ENJOY!!!

Good listening!

Bowbow...A suggestion to Mabonn is to buy a DAC. In that context my question regarding DAC superiority vs D/A in a good player is relevant. The one with the superiority complex is you...IMHO of course.

Cables- Replace the APs with Clear Day Solid Core Silver in shotgun. Next, replace the CD player with a Raysonic 168- add cryoed NOS and Herbie Tube Dampeners. I was able to eliminate the preamp in my system as the true balanced tube output of the 168 is extraordinarily transparent