I think it’s pretty well established that the quality of the recording is the single most important factor in sound reproduction. I second the notion that looking into streaming could bring you the biggest benefit since you have access to a wide world of good recordings. I am in the same age bracket as you and I have found that the most fun is trying different types of reproduction equipment. So in the future if you have the itch to spend money try a small tube amp. Consider open baffle speakers. Efficient Full range speakers These bring different virtues to the table. Not necessarily better. It sounds like you’ve got a solid system so go where your muse takes you and have fun.
Hardware or source materail
Hello –
The following is for context.
I am an old guy. I grew up in the days a Mac 225, AR3a, EPI, Phase Linear. I have only recently stopped working full time so I bought the following for my small office listening area, about 12x12.
Debut Carbon/Ortofon Blue
CA AXR100
Denon 600NE
KEF LS50
B&W 8” 300 watt Sub (sealed)
I mostly listen to orchestral, Steely Dan, Miles, Brubeck, Krall, Botti – you get the idea. I also am season holder for LA Phil and Hollywood Bowl so I know what “real” music sounds like.
My little system may not be to everyone’s taste but I find it fills my little space well.
Here is the quandary:
Like most, I am always thinking about the next “upgrade” for improved fidelity. Don’t need loud or to fill big space. However, I just purchased a half-speed (45 RPM) Brubeck and was absolutely astonished at the dynamic range and sound quality. I believe that what it is telling me is that with the right input the hardware I have is maximized.
Obviously, a $7K amp and equally expensive supporting components would be even better. But how much better? Is the investment in better source material a better use of funds? After all, that will always be available if the hardware is improved. You can buy a lot of $60-150 vinyl records (or CDs made from masters) for the 15 to $20K hardware cost.
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Sorry, my answer only implied my response to the original question. Good source material is important, but I think that better gear might improve the “normal” source material such that the hi-res versions can be reserved for some special recordings. I would suggest trying a separate preamp, but your integrated does not support it. Maybe a low cost experiment like upgrading the phono preamp with something like: https://www.schiit.com/products/skoll I also support the suggestions for digital, you can get a pretty good setup nowadays for not too much. |
I’m fairly old too. Apologies if offended. What I meant was that it might be advantagous to invest in HQ streaming rather than build up a collection of the most expensive vinyl to play on a modest rig. Especially, and respectfully, OP, as you stated that you were old. Without spending a lot more, you may achieve good results from digital. Your question about obtaining the best source material stands. Yes, the best recordings and pressings will always sound great and will always elevate whatever system thet are played on. However, consider this: the best remastered vinyl on a modest rig will probably not sound as good as originals and the second best vinyl (if you will) on better hardware.
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Thank you all for your responses. I did try the Schiit Mani 2 and it was the worst. Their support was limited to "just use the factory settings". I test using the Ortofon test vinyl.Tracking and separation seems fine with the CA. Tracked everything up to the 80 um and broke up on the 90 and just bounced on the 100. I think the spec on the Blue is 80. This would seem to indicate that the issue was in the Schiit not the 'table. I have not given up on the improved phono stage. I am looking around. Perhaps a tube but since I would still run through the CA, not sure if it is worth the expense vs as SS. AKGWIZ - I think you may have it inverted. The blue is the upgrade to the red which BTW did make a noticeable improvment. I spent some time at Excel Audio in Newport Beach and auditioned some gear. Some of the best available and it was very impressive. My issue is that my room is so small it seems to me that I would reach a point of dimminishing returns very quickly. |
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