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Looking to upgrade my setup.

Hi y'all! I'm pretty much a rookie when it comes to high end audio. As a musician my ears are pretty tuned but I only recently have gained appreciation to potentials of audio systems. Currently I'm running a pair of Energy cb-20 bookshelves through an entry level Denon reciever. I also have an m and k double 12" sub. The problem I have with it is that the highs seem rather harsh and it is lacking mid bass. I'm hoping to get a system with smoother highs and more punch an the snares and kick drums. Does anyone have any recommendations as far as a new amp and speakers? I really like the sub so I'd like something that wont be drowned out by the m&k beast. Thanks!
rolsson

Showing 1 response by jazzerdave

jazzerdave
163 posts
 
Getting a Peachtree iDecco is not a bad place to start. It has a nice DAC, headphone amp, preamp, iPod dock, and a decent 30W stereo power amp in one cabinet. It doesn't have a ton of power, but makes a great starting point. Get that and speakers first, then upgrade the power amp and just use the iDecco as a preamp/DAC. Then when you upgrade your Preamp, it's still a nice DAC and headphone amp. I use one of these as an all-in-one bedroom system - it's great. They're only $800 right now; I'd say that's a good buy even if you only end up using it as a DAC.

Scour here and eBay for a used Adcom GFA-5500 or 5802 for a really solid power amp that will drive just about anything. Aim for ~400 for the 5500 and double that for the 5802.

I'd look for a Conrad Johnson PV-5 to use as a preamp if you decide to avoid the Peachtree for some reason. Jump on one if you can find it for about $700. Seriously.

What's your current source, and what were you thinking for a budget?
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