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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
soulbrass
246 posts
 
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!
eldartford
4,262 posts
 
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.
tweak1
3,680 posts
 
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
onhwy61's avatar
onhwy61
5,258 posts
 
My system is finally sounding pretty good. Actually gives me goosebumps.

If that's really the case, then most changes you could make would probably not improve what you've already got. My advice is to take the money you would spend on equipment and spend it on new music.
mabonn OP
181 posts
 
I am truly amazed by the responses this thread has generated. The question is, "if my system gives my goosebumps, why change it ?" My experience has been that you won't know the detail you are missing if you have never heard it. Like trading up from a Nikon to a Leica or a Hasselblad. If you have never seen a photo taken with the better optics, you might think the detail presented by the Nikon is "all there is". Can I improve the resolving power of my system ? If so, what upgrade would give me the best "bang for the buck" ?
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