2. analog
  3. 160217-128706

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

paulgardner

Showing 2 responses by williewonka

williewonka
3,125 posts
 
I'm with the guys above that mentioned replacing the cables.

The right Cables will make a huge improvement to any system and without great cables you are not hearing the best possible performance from your components.

I have spent the last 6 years auditioning some very good cables and designing my own DIY cables and have been amazed at the continual improvements I have observed from comparatively simple cable upgrade, so I believe Cables are the best starting place for any upgrade venture

Companies like InAkustic or Nordost make some very fine cables that will improve most any system - there are other companies, but these two companies are what I consider to be leaders in cable architecture/geometry, which is key to cable performance 

If you are interested in a DIY approach then read this current Agon thread...
https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/duelund-conversion-to-diy-helix-geometry-cabling

There are postings from some very seasoned Audiogon members.

Regards - Steve 
williewonka
3,125 posts
 
@paulgardner ...

Nordost was my first exposure to Power cables that made an easily discernible improvement
- I was in a demo room at a show with about 15 other audio guys
- so it was less than "ideal" listening conditions.-
- The Nordost guy played a track
- replaced ONE power cable on the source component
- replayed the track
- the difference was easily heard by everyone.

I also agree with @tablejockey..
Tread lightly in the cable zone and keep your ears wide open
I've trusted my ears for several years and have not been disappointed :-)

There are many options/brands looking to get your cash and trying to discern which ones actually provide significant benefits can be time consuming and expensive.

InAkustic - uses an exceptional geometry and metallurgy to achieve stunning results
Nordost - uses a different geometry and materials that also work exceptionally well

Unfortunately - all that development comes at a price point which may not suite every budget.

So keep an eye out for resale cables.
- Even older versions of cables from these two brands will offer great performance.

Regards - Steve





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