I get it now


I have been slowly doing smallish upgrades to my audio system and seeing modest results but today I hooked up my new (to me) McIntosh C2500 preamp and I get it now. I finally see what a premium component can do to the sound. This change was even bigger than my initial upgrade to Forte IIIs as my speakers.  Human voices are more real than anything I’ve heard before. It’s truly a night and day difference. Even my extremely non audiophile wife immediately noticed the change.  
Alright, enough writing. I’m off to listen to music until I can’t keep my eyes open! 
varchard
@oldhvymec, @teo_audio Thanks for the great tips!  Yes, the tubes are still stock (have the McIntosh logo on them).  I'll look for 4 matched valves to swap out and see how it sounds.  That's also good advice on upgrading slowly...but man is that hard to hold myself to.  Almost as hard as slowing down how many records I buy so I can enjoy them longer ;)
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Glad you got to experience a change in your system for the better it is these moments that are the best part of stereo listening.
I'm glad you are happy with your upgrade. Days like this are what makes audio so addicting. The "buzz" last longer than alcohol with only a minor $ hangover👍