Focal Mini Utopias

I would recommend room treatments first. On occasion I found the tweeters on my Mezzos leaning on the hot side, but after installing room treatments the brightness and hardness is no longer an issue. I have had good results with ASC PCAD panels.

First of all, you have a very nice system. However, you Musical Fidelity Integrated is probably not be the best match for the JM Labs. If you are going to keep those speakers I would strongly suggest you consider selling the MF Int Amp and getting a Tube Integrated Amplifier like a Cary SLI-80, a VAC Super Avatar, or something in that realm.

On a good system, bad recordings do sound like bad recordings though and good ones of course sound great. The addition of the Tube amp though will add some needed "Bloom" and sweetness and should correct what is bothering you.

Good Luck!

Chris

thanks for your input. I am curious as to why my MF amp may not be a good match for these speakers. thanks for your time!

I've heard those speakers sound very good with a Sugden A21 and Lavardin amplification.

I'd disagree with any drastic changes suggested (changing of an amp etc). You apparently have revealing system and/or room. Masking it, it would be just as good as covering your speakers with blanket. Start with the room treatment. You can find a lot of good info on the web, for nice and effective DIY panels to tame the reflections.