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?
eugkim
Disappointed?? Don't feel bad. I got the bug to upgrade
my 15 year system(in its time was considered high end). I
listened to Avalon Eidolons, Maggie 3.6s, and Martin Logan
Prodigies. Boy was I disappointed!!! The differences were
not worth the cost compared to my older system. Save your
money and take your wife and kids to Disney World; you will
enjoy it more.
I went through a stage where my system was static for many years, and I found myself listening to it less often. Ironically, it was my plunge into Home Theater that got me back into the "gear lust" mode, and I've since combined the two systems (had to..move to a smaller house overseas). Bought Thiel 1.5s among other things, and will probably upgrade to 2.3s when I return to the states. Over the course of these upgrades, I found myself listening to music more and more.

I'd go give new speakers a chance...they tend to have a way of reawkening your interest in the sound of your system, and may give you a chance to rediscover your music collection!
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.
Sounds like your in need of a reawakening. It doesnt sound like your a acid rock, rap music fan. Consider a moderate SET system. There have been some great deals on amps on this site lately. The speakers are going to be a stretch but it should be doable. Just food for thought....