This is a well travelled discussion in many threads in AGON and other audio forums.
(1) There is no escaping that swapping in and swapping out alternatives yourself will be the only litmus test as to what sounds best in YOUR system. Why? Because the varying testimonials in A-GON are only biased personal opinions with no basis of fact or measure of assurance that their recommended choices will actually work best in YOUR system. I have personally experienced where a $1,000+ power chord sounded markedly inferior to the $250 power chord as recomended by the CDP and amp manufacturer IN MY SYSTEM (emphasis added - in my system); and the differences were not subtle.
(2) Suggestion: get your audio buddies involved and try to get a loaner from the dealer or a friend for the week-end to experiment. Let's remember that this is a journey and rarely -- if ever -- a destination.
(3) Lastly, a blind purchase cheapo swap-in is usually high risk and ultimately may actually work out for the worse. Operative words: "blind purchase" is a risk that is entirely avoidable. There may be some great bargains out there for sure, and you do not have to blow the wad. However is a blind purchase risk something you are willing to take; because that time honoured axiom highlights that frequently you get only what you pay for.
(1) There is no escaping that swapping in and swapping out alternatives yourself will be the only litmus test as to what sounds best in YOUR system. Why? Because the varying testimonials in A-GON are only biased personal opinions with no basis of fact or measure of assurance that their recommended choices will actually work best in YOUR system. I have personally experienced where a $1,000+ power chord sounded markedly inferior to the $250 power chord as recomended by the CDP and amp manufacturer IN MY SYSTEM (emphasis added - in my system); and the differences were not subtle.
(2) Suggestion: get your audio buddies involved and try to get a loaner from the dealer or a friend for the week-end to experiment. Let's remember that this is a journey and rarely -- if ever -- a destination.
(3) Lastly, a blind purchase cheapo swap-in is usually high risk and ultimately may actually work out for the worse. Operative words: "blind purchase" is a risk that is entirely avoidable. There may be some great bargains out there for sure, and you do not have to blow the wad. However is a blind purchase risk something you are willing to take; because that time honoured axiom highlights that frequently you get only what you pay for.