I've found the Maggies to need volume to come alive....that doesn't sound like acoustic music/folk to me. Be sure to audition the Maggies at low volumes. Going toward more efficient speakers might be a good move toward low volume transparency. Tannoys? Try a tube preamp to get more "aire" into your system - they don't require any maintenance to speak of, small signal tubes last probably 10+ years (do turn them off when not using however). Even then it's like changing a light bulb - no biasing required. Audio Note Kits? (get them fully assembled for 15%)
Help me get the best sound under $5K in upgrades
I need help. My system: mac mini, McIntosh Pre 15, McIntosh MC2255, Joseph Audio RM22si / REL Strata iii.
I just switched to the McIntosh from an Audio Refinement Complete, but am willing to change anything other than the front end or going tubes. I don't want the maintenance of tubes, and want to keep the convenience of digital.
I mostly listen to acoustic/folk/jazz/vocals.
I'm considering planars and demo-ing a set of Maggie 1.7's next week.
I just want the best sound possible, and don't want to throw money away on things that I can't hear.
Is the McIntosh mostly just cool lights and nostalgia? Can I get better sound for my $? Can I do better than Planars with my sub and a really nice pair of monitors?
I just switched to the McIntosh from an Audio Refinement Complete, but am willing to change anything other than the front end or going tubes. I don't want the maintenance of tubes, and want to keep the convenience of digital.
I mostly listen to acoustic/folk/jazz/vocals.
I'm considering planars and demo-ing a set of Maggie 1.7's next week.
I just want the best sound possible, and don't want to throw money away on things that I can't hear.
Is the McIntosh mostly just cool lights and nostalgia? Can I get better sound for my $? Can I do better than Planars with my sub and a really nice pair of monitors?