Eugkim, I think that if you've liked a set-up at a dealer more than what you have at home, you should make the dealer earn his money and see if he can make suggestions for improvements in your set-up. The dealer may let you audition at home before you buy. Then you can tell whether you have the sound you're looking for without risk.
Disappointment
I don't know if anyone else has had the same problem. I've had Thiel 1.2 speakers matched with an old Luxman R117 receiver and Denon 1520 CD since I was in school. I have since been quite busy with work, marriage and 3 kids and my time of critical (or any type) of listening has gone away. I always felt that the sound was pretty good, but I could tell the difference if I listened to something better in a store.
Recently, I got the bug to upgrade, eventhough I still don't have the time to listen. I proceeded to buy a new Integra DVD player (I have since switched back to my Denon for music)and used Conrad Johnson PFR preamp and MF2200 amp. Although the sound is good, I can't say that I'm totally overwhelmed.
After this long diatribe, the question presents itself - do I continue down the upgrade path with new cables and speakers (I thought of Thiel 2.3s or B&W 803) or I am not talented enough of a listener to make it worthwhile?
Recently, I got the bug to upgrade, eventhough I still don't have the time to listen. I proceeded to buy a new Integra DVD player (I have since switched back to my Denon for music)and used Conrad Johnson PFR preamp and MF2200 amp. Although the sound is good, I can't say that I'm totally overwhelmed.
After this long diatribe, the question presents itself - do I continue down the upgrade path with new cables and speakers (I thought of Thiel 2.3s or B&W 803) or I am not talented enough of a listener to make it worthwhile?