"chunky_john" wrote

(Tried posting this on rec.audio.high-end. Got lots of
advice, but no-one actually answered my question...)

Ok.


Current system: Marantz CD63 KI Signature, Arcam
8/8P biamped to Monitor Audio Gold Reference 20s
via Chord Odyssey 4. Interconnects are Cambridge
Audio Studio Reference.

Have just upgraded speakers & cables. Very nice!.
What next?

What do you find lacking (technical limitations/preference)
about your existing system setup?


My thoughts are interconnects first, probably CD player
second, then amplification last.

An intellectual approach is not possible in determining
the weakest link in your particular system or your
preferences. High end is an empirical approach
concept. Your ears must be your ultimate guide... and
the size of your wallet .


CD/amp: I am very tempted to try....

Try many things until you hit upon something that emotional
grabs you. I find that auditioning two or more of something,
for example CD players, will give you a better feeling for the
price-to-performance ratio a particular component adds
(sound wise) to your overall system. You seem to be taking
the shotgun approach.


... , but I'm totally open-minded.

Three suggestions to consider:

1. Audition a tubed pre-amp for a different perspective of
the sound presentation.

2. Try lowering the cabinet noise your speakers produce
by coupling them with spikes... if you don't have carpeting.
Most spikes are unable to adequately penetrate through
the carpet and pad into the sub-floor.

3. Audition a power line conditioner like those
manufactured by Audio Power Industries, for example.
http://www.audiopower.com/newsite/toc.html