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  3. 176389-162022

How do I get the best soundstage?

I have a better than decent digital system. I.e. Pass integrated amp, Innuos streamer and USB reclocker, Ayre DAC with Less Loss power cable and firewall, Volti speakers. I’m my dedicated listening room the digital system is sonically superb to my ear - Except that the soundstage is ok but not the best. So, maybe I missed the boat on that. I have a vintage Technics table and Phono box S2 (basic start for vinyl). I’m now ready to move up to a better TT and phono preamp. I already have a used TT, a VPI Classic, coming. So, I’m looking for advice on how to get an exceptional soundstage. Should I be looking at spending more on the phono preamp or does the cartridge make more of a difference in soundstage. Also, should I be questioning the speakers for soundstage quality?. I’m looking to spend no more that 3500 on a used preamp. The VPI table has a low output mc Transfiguration Axia cartridge. Thanks in advance for any ideas you can share!

hysteve

Showing 1 response by yeti42

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yeti42
287 posts
 

Speaker setup plays a big part. Do a search for Sumiko Masterset and give it a go, all it will cost is time.

Cartridge wise a Transfiguration isn’t a bad place to be but when setting up a unipivot arm measure VTF at record surface height, or if you can’t accept that it will measure higher than it plays and use your ears, just using the measurements for reference.

Something better than a project phonobox might be a good move, if the Pass has a built in MM stage consider a SUT but if it doesn’t there are some fine stages out there.

Volti keep saying their speakers are fun, are you having any?

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