Help, too bright


My setup is this:
Paradigm studio 20s v2
NAD 521i cdp
NAD 320bee amp
Radioshack speaker wire
Interconnects supplied with cdp

Last night was the first time I've had fatigue from listening. Every high pitched note was unlikable. It was on a 192kbs Ravi Shankar "Inside The Kremlin" cd. Pretty much the first time I've tried to listen to an mp3 cd. Actually caused pain in my ears. Something I should mention about my speakers.. my stands are in the process of being sent to me. Ordered them last week, currently the speakers are sitting on my desk. So my questions are:

After putting my speakers on stands, will the brightness of the tweeter be gone or noticably reduced?

What speaker wires should I upgrade to for a warmer sound?

Was my cd a big factor in the brightness?

Thanks for the help.
threetwo1audeo

Showing 1 response by joe_b

1. MP3 is not a high fidelity source and should not be used for critical listening.
2. Interconnects that come with your equipment should not be used. For cd player to amp suggest you try MIT, Harmonic Tech or if you're on a budget, Phoenix Gold 810 (from Parts Express). Avoid the cheap AR cables recommended by Stereophile.
3. Radio Shack speaker cables should be replaced. For low cost, try Canare Star Quad available from Markertek or the CL-3 Monster cables from Parts Express. Search the forums for more info. Even a good ofc copper based 12 gauge cable will probably work as a starter solution.
4. Good speaker stands will improve the sound.
5. After trying all of the above, if your system still sounds brite, suggest you investigate the AH! LS Noise Killer filter for your speakers.