Are internal component upgrades worth it.


Hey guys, 

I have 5 year old Cornwall IVs that I have paired with a Luxman L-507z integrated amp. (do not smack me) Ive watched a few upgrade videos like Boston audiophile and of course Danny Richie and they claim that upgrading the crossovers, using tube connectors, upgrading the internal wiring and using norez in the cabinet will take these speakers to another level. Now I like these speakers but I dont know if im handy enough to do the DIY upgrade. Shipping 100 pound speakers is not an option. So are these upgrades really a thing? Ive only ever had these speakers in my system so i dont know what im missing if I am.

Thanks for your consideration

paqua123

Showing 1 response by erik_squires

Really depends. The greatest value IMHO Is what you personally learn from the exercise, but financially, no. If you don’t like how your speakers are sounding or think you can upgrade for peanuts it’s not worth it.

There are some cases where it’s a bargain. Replacing tweeter caps in Focals and Wharferdales and budget B&W speakers is often worth it, especially if you can find a good sounding, budget cap, like Mundorf MKP (Yeah, others hate them but comapred to Solens I think they are great).

If you feel the need to get your hands dirty, and I wish you would, consider instead building a kit from Madiscound, Meniscus, Parts Express or Solen. You’ll have more fun, feel less frustrated and waste less money.

Whatever you do, consider hanging out at DIYaudio where a lot of excellent and helpful builders are.

Of course, my normal advice is make sure your room has the proper acoustics for your speakers.  A poorly treated room will make all speakers sound mediocre and in need of an upgrade.  A well treated room will make a lot of speakers sound great.