Your system seems top notch. Top end brightness can be somewhat resolved with speaker placement and room treatments in my opinion. It’s the “ghost” in my system as well. I’m in a similar place with my system. Totally satisfied 90% of the time. The only upgrade I have done recently was to send some of my reference Lps out for a proper cleaning. I used www.thevinylarchivist.com as he is local to me. I can’t tell you what an improvement a proper ultrasonic cleaning has done for the LP’s I had done. It’s insane what a difference it has made. Even on seemingly “perfect” pressings I own. Good luck on your journey!
Dedicated Vinyl system next upgrade?
Hi. I love my system. I really do. I love vinyl and listen to vinyl nearly exclusively via “appointment listening”. I do Sometimes stream and listen while I walk or while working but I love just sitting and listening to my stereo. I believe I’ve arrived regarding finally achieving a great set up and have experienced that vinyl “magic” that audiophiles obsess over. I understand that limitations exist and a great stereo will reveal the quality of a recording - good or bad. The law a diminishing returns regarding upgrading is something I’m mindful of. I don’t have endless funds to spend on upgrades. My question is - what should I consider upgrading next? Should I ditch the integrated amp considering I’m using an external phono stage? Or should I go with a better integrated amp? Or should I look at a better cartridge? Do I upgrade my turntable or just the tonearm? Do I upgrade the power cable on my amp?
Here’s what I’m currently working with - and thanks for your thoughts/suggestions!
Clear Audio Concept Turntable
W/ Hana SL cartridge
Herron Audio VTPH-2a Phono Stage
Rogue Audio Cronus Magnum II integrated power amplifier
Kimber Kable speaker wire and interconnects (I forget which model - an entry lever set - nothing crazy)
Bowers and Wilkins 805 D3 stand mount loud speakers
Set of two stereo REL S/510 subs
Here’s what I’m currently working with - and thanks for your thoughts/suggestions!
Clear Audio Concept Turntable
W/ Hana SL cartridge
Herron Audio VTPH-2a Phono Stage
Rogue Audio Cronus Magnum II integrated power amplifier
Kimber Kable speaker wire and interconnects (I forget which model - an entry lever set - nothing crazy)
Bowers and Wilkins 805 D3 stand mount loud speakers
Set of two stereo REL S/510 subs