I found that not every piece of equipment I tried went well with my system and made it sound better as I’ve upgraded from a combination system to separate components over time. Suggest working with a local dealer(s) depending on what’s available near you or online with vendors that will let you buy, try and return for little no fee. The only way you’ll know is to try in your room with your equipment in my experience. Trust your ears as you decide and stay within your budget. There is so much great equipment being made these days. Enjoy your ongoing musical journey!
Do sound characteristics matter when moving from midfi to hifi?
Like many, i'm waiting and researching while waiting until I can afford my next upgrades. As I read the pluses/minuses of each piece, I wonder if it only matters once you reach a certain level. Hypothetically, if going from Sony, Marantz, Schiit am I going to find something that I don't like about Pass Labs, Conrad Johnson, Coda? Everything I have, I bought online so I din't audition anything prior. Back in the 80s, when I bought my 1st system, (Yamaha, Infiniti) I bought what I could afford again without much auditioning. Just curious on the point of view from the more seasoned crowd.