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Best Way to Spend ~ $2000 for System Improvement

Hi fellow music lovers! I have about $2000 right now to improve my system. It can be for any component, but I'm thinking amplification first, power, pre, or integrated. SS or tube.

To begin, right now I have a Mccormack 0.5 Deluxe power amp with "A" revisions, an Eva 2 passive preamp, Metrum Octave v1 DAC, Dell laptop for music files. Sometimes I use a Teac H750 as a transport and GMA Pico Executive speakers. The room is small, about 14x18x10ft. I listen to about 50/50 rock and classical, mostly full orchestral. As far as just sound goes, I would like the bass to be "fast". No delay or overhang, not exaggerated, but detailed. Detail is important at any frequency, the more the better, but not at the expense of musicality. I realize at this price point, compromise is necessary, and treble would be the best place for that. No harshness allowed, but I'm in my later 50s now and don't hear treble like I once did.

I hope I've given enough info to get some good suggestions. I like the sound now, but think it could be better, maybe a slightly lower noise floor and a little more pace and rhythm while retaining it's sweetness and smoothness. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance. BTW, if any existing question answers any part of this question, feel free to link it.
xrayz

Showing 5 responses by lowrider57

lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,397 posts
 
I agree that amp is a keeper. Also agree an active preamp would be the component to add for a change in dynamics and detail.

Are your speakers resting on the floor? To get faster, tighter bass, they need to be on footers or spikes.

The best way to lower the noise floor is to address your power situation. Install a dedicated AC line from your circuit box (if possible). A good power conditioner can significantly lower the noise floor; a passive unit can be had for under $500. Only your low-current components should be plugged into it, the amp should remain plugged into the wall for best results.
And having your computer on the same AC line as your components is adding noise to your system. Typically 2 lines are used, one for analogue and a separate line for digital.
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,397 posts
 
I believe you should start with dedicated AC lines; you want to isolate your system from all devices and appliances in your house. Since you are using digital files from a computer, you should have the electrician run two 20 amp lines. Your digital devices should be separate from your analogue since they can introduce noise thru a shared power line.

Then install quality AC receptacles; there is a ton of info in the archives and you will get recommendations here.

Depending on the quality of the power from the grid in your area, you may not need a power conditioner. Use your Monster power strip, and with high quality power cords, you will notice a much lower noise floor.
My advice is to address the power cables before upgrading your other cables. A great bang for your buck cable is Pangea Audio, available at Audio Advisor. The Audience PowerChord series is an affordable high-end cable and they are often for sale in the Agon classifieds.

lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,397 posts
 
@xrayz, 6 years ago, an electrician charged me $210 to install a 20 amp breaker and run 12 gauge Romex from my basement panel to the 1st floor. I've since learned that 10 gauge is recommended and that I really needed 2 dedicated lines.
Running two lines at the same time would be very cost effective. Most electricians will give you a free estimate for the work involved, although you may need to supply the 10 gauge Romex since it's not a standard size for a residence.

For AC receptacles, Porter Ports are highly recommended and sold by Audiogon's Albert Porter. And very affordable.
https://www.audiogon.com/listings/ac-distribution-porter-port-porter-ports-outlets-cryo-various-colo...
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,397 posts
 
@xrayz, You're right about the average electrician, they don't understand the complexities of power in an audio system. Mine said he knew all about home theater and not to worry. He was competent, but in the end his installation was not optimal for a HiFi system. Read the thread I started asking for advise on proper installation for audio...
https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/dedicated-line-advise

Romex is a manufacturer, but the important thing is to use the same cable design; copper, 3 conductor, solid (not stranded) wire.
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,397 posts
 
@xrayz, did you see my thread? I got advice from the experts on proper installation of dedicated lines, due to the fact my first installation was not optimal. The electrician did not arrange the circuit box for low noise.

https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/dedicated-line-advise

Take a photo or draw a diagram of your current circuit box layout. Your new audio lines have to be placed away from appliances and other devices that generate noise.
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