CD Player Recommendations - System sounding shrill


Hi. I haven't upgraded anything in my system for several years, and no longer read Stereophile or visit stores, and find that I am really out of the loop on modern equipment. My system currently annoys me as I find it overly shrill sounding, and suspect it is the CD player which was never really up to par with the rest of the system anyway. The system is as follows:

Linn LP12
Audio Research LS7
Adcom GCD-575
Nakamichi PA-7
B&W 802

Astute observes will note that when I upgraded to the LS7 I no longer had a phono stage so I rarely use the LP12 anymore. The system lacks the bass extension that I would expect and believe it is the Adcom, however, I suppose it could be the Nak. Anyway, I wanted to correct this problem, hopefully, without spending a lot of money. My questions are:

1. Does anyone think the power amp is really the problem as opposed to the CD player?
2. CD player recommendations - should I just go with a DAC and keep the Adcom, or replace the entire thing? I was thinking of a Micromega Stage 2 or Rega Planet - as I said, I would prefer not to spend much money. I am shying away from the Planet since it is top-loading.

Thanks in advance,
Todd
t-peters96e2

Showing 1 response by audioman4

Have you considered a tube change in the LS-7...
When tubes go, your system will exibit all the characteristics you describe. If you are interested in changing the player, try the Arcam CD23 or maybe even a Jolida... The Adcom transport is simple and could be a decent transport, but a new player may suit you better.
Tube wise, in my ls-7, I have found that some Rocket Logo tubes from Upscale Audio provided me with excellent, musical bass and extremely detailed and listenable highs.
If you were happy with your amp before, then there is no reason to change it... Try the tubes first.. a modest investment at around 160.00
The player will run around 700.00 or so
and any decent amp the same used...
Best of luck,
Joe
Custom Audio LLC