Midrange texture?

Onhwy61, I agree with both assertions. The components have to work together as a system, and the stars has to align correctly, then it will start sounding magic. The type of detail I'm after could ver well be the effect of close mic'ing. However hearing those effect conjures up the feeling of hearing the utmost detail. It may not be realistic, but it makes you wonder. Also it's something that I haven't be able to reproduce in my system, and I'm curious as for why.

Dave_b, I'm not much of a detail freak when it comes to the cables. I have moderate quality cables and power cords. But the systems with the sound I'm after don't always have better cables and cords either.

By the way, I don't feel the sound of my system is lacking any detail compared to other systems that I've heard. My system is better in PRAT, dynamics, and extension, piano, percussion, etc. Not so much in string instruments and woodwind instruments. I wonder if I'm missing some kind of pixie powder for string and woodwinds.

Sean, thanks for the input. ;) None of my component has earned immunity, and I'm open to any suggestions.

Tube rolling, new interconnects, and the isolation are all something that I would like to try out. Pops, my preamp came with six Amperex 6922 tubes from the previous owner. The markings and silkscreens on the tubes are not identical, and I'm not sure what affect if any they have on the sound. Should I be using six identical tubes? This is my first tube gear, so please send me any recommendation of the type and make of the tubes to use. Sean, Joey, please share your impression on how the isolation device improved the sound. As much as I would love to try out those tweaks my left brain is telling me otherwise. For example I tried lifting my speaker cables off the carpet today using CD jewel cases. I can't be sure if it made any significant difference and I just feel goofy about doing this. :)

Well, well, well.

I've bought three of the Herbie's iso cups with lampblack balls and put them under the preamp. The sound changed A LOT. It's been only a few hours, and I need more time to understand what all these change means, but I just wanted to drop by and express my amazement.