Hi G13; Lots of good info. above to consider. One thing I can add about equipment is that all the McCormack DNA amps project a "laid back" image, ie they image (and soundstage) a couple of feet behind the speakers. I've used the DNA-1DX, .5, and 2DX and they all do it. However it's an effect I happen to like. In your room if the image is 2 feet behind the speakers, that only leaves room for a 2.5 foot deep soundstage. I have tried some equipment that is much more forward, ie ML 331 amp, SF Line 3 preamp, and these projected a huge forward and deep, but un-natural soundstage that was not to my liking. Good Luck. Craig.
3-D Imaging: How??
I'm finally satisfied with my current system, except for one thing: it is absolutely 2 dimensional except with a few discs in which you get a little depth. I have: Rega Planet, CJ PV11L, McCormack DNA.5, B&W Nautilus 805s. Interconnects are TARA Labs Master Gen 2, speaker cable is Audioquest SA-40 (hyper pure silver) on top, CV-4 on bottom(the CV-4 actually compares well to other cables I have tried) All equipment sits on marble slabs that are "tip-toed" to the concrete below my carpet. I'm using an Isobar Surge protector on the CD and Preamp, with a Sonic Horizons Daybreak power cord directly into the wall on the amp. The room is about 12" by 13", but I have a totally dedicated room with a good nearfield setup. Why is my sound 2-D?? Thanks guys!!