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A stupid question for which there's no sensible answer.

I know, I know. At least I've labeled it properly.

Here goes: of the following elements of a system, how would you rank their influence on the sound? In other words, generally, which would someone want to upgrade or prioritize, and in what order,  if all of the following pieces were inferior to an amp/preamp and speakers they were happy with? Power cables, connector cables. speaker cables. streaming source, music source, dac (I vote for this one as #1), room treatment, speaker placement, type of chair, earwax quotient, what you ate for lunch, etc.

I hereby give my permission for everyone to tell me this is an idiotic question since the real answer is: it depends. (But I did put a "generally" in there somewhere). Anyway, I prefer that we debate this based on what we've experienced when we've tinkered. So I guess I'm really interested in anecdotes.

m669326

Showing 3 responses by audiorusty

audiorusty
309 posts
 

I agree with Mahgister.

The room is definitely the weakest part of the system, if you want to call it a part,

Not only is the room a part of the system, it’s the biggest player in the system. Your room will affect the sound of your system more than any single component. Also remember, carpeting, furniture, furnishings, room shape, etc. are all a part of the acoustical profile. Some good, some bad.

Acoustics in my opinion are challenging and I wouldn’t hesitate to consult with an expert or two that work in the field. Also remember, you don’t have to make all the changes, just make the ones that your circumstances allow. Another thing to keep in mind is that some acoustical issues can be addressed electronically much more economically. 

As far as upgrading your actual components, if your plan is to upgrade your entire system over time, I would upgrade the components that you think will change the least in that time frame first and the ones that could change the most, last.


audiorusty
309 posts
 
I’m still wondering if a very complex room could be a good room, audio wise.
It absolutely can as long as you are willing to put in the work to make it so.

The goal doesn't have to be perfection.

What are you hearing now that you don't like?
audiorusty
309 posts
 
Secondly, I like the way my system sounds,
This is all that matters. It doesn't matter if you have heard anyone else's system or if your ears are untrained or not sophisticated. It doesn't matter what anyone else thinks is good sound either. If you like what you are hearing you have reached the pinnacle. Sit back, relax, pour yourself a beverage and enjoy.
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