I’d agree with @jhnnrrs about the equalizer you have in the chain. I’m not sure why you would need it given you have an 8 band in the preamp. Pull that thing out and get yourself a nice external DAC. Not sure how much of your listening is digital vice vinyl but an external DAC would likely make a huge difference depending on budget. You could likely do better for speakers given the level of your other components but I’ve never heard the Spendors.
if you had this system, what would you do to make it sound the best you can
This is my first time using this forum. I'm looking to improve my system, and I'd like to hear your ideas of what you would change or purchase to make it sound even better. Current system: McIntosh amp MC202, 200 watts/ch; C42 preamp with DAC and 8 band equalizer; MCD 301CD; MR85 Tuner; streamer MB20. TT is Pro-ject Classic SB, Equalizer Sound Shaper 3 IC, Speakers Spendor A5s rated 150watts peak, cables Audioquest; R to R, J Corder Technics RS1520; Panamax Power. All pieces have original power cords. Audio cables are low-end. Music: Classical, Jazz, Easy/soft Rock. Joan Baez, Enya, etc. thank you for any advice.