In the end, it depends on who you are.
And I certainly agree with the advice about treating the room before buying anything else. It's your biggest component. I find most fatigue is caused by the room.
Is it me? Will I ever be satisfied?
As we have become empty nesters, we put together or are putting together a nice dedicated two channel system consisting of B&W 804 D3, Levinson No. 333 ( this is an older amp 20+ years old), McIntosh C22 (just purchased) in which I have already upgraded the tubes, Linn Lp12 TT, Blue Sound for streaming. I am using Transparent balanced cables and Transparent speaker cables - not sure of the exact model, but all Transparent cables are close to 20 years old as well.
My questions, while I think the system sounds good - even really good. I don't think it sounds great. I recently purchased the C22 to be used with the No. 333 which I replaced a McIntosh MA252, which i really like and use in another system, it didn't have enough power. My room is our garage which we converted to a playroom years ago. It is approximately 25' and 20' wide. We sit about 12' from the speakers which are at one end of the room .. While I realize that this hobby or lifestyle can be never ending.... I am considering upgrading the cables next and last but not least, add a new Amp, McIntosh MC462 or MC312.
Wanted to get some feedback, thoughts, in site, advice what you experience, am I missing anything? Thanks