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Need Expert Opinions On An Old System


I have an older system has served me well for years, but now in a new house and larger room, it seems to be a touch lacking and hasn't sparkled like before. Since I have been out of the game for a while, any opinions on an inexpensive upgrade path would be welcome!

Power: Adcom ACE 515
Source: Rotel RCD940BX
Source: iPod via Marantz iPod Dock
Pre: Sonographe SC26
Amp: Muse Model 100
Amp: NHT MA-1A (never been hooked up yet)
Speakers: NHT Model 2.5
Sub: NHT SW-2P (again, never been hooked up yet)
Cabling: Wireworld Solstice level mostly, AQ Copperhead

Notes:

1. I listen to 50-50 between CDs and the iPod.
2. I believe hooking up the sub and amp will help.
3. I would like to hook up my TV as well for shows, movies, etc.
4. Room is 17'x22' with a 17'x15' kitchen/breakfast area adjacent.
5. I need a DVD/Blue Ray player.

Thanks in advance!
slamcatalina

Showing 2 responses by slamcatalina

slamcatalina OP
2 posts
 
Good thoughts everyone. I'll go ahead and hook the sub/amp combo up. The Muse driving the NHTs don't seem to have as much punch in my previous (smaller) room so hopefully taking some of the load off with the sub/amp combo will allow it to free up a bit.

Regarding the Oppo, good call. I need to go ahead and get one although I'm unsure between the 83, 83SE, or one with various mods (probably out of my budget).

Will keep everyone posted...
slamcatalina OP
2 posts
 
Sub/amp combo hooked up following preferred method by NHT where I ran the input into the back of my amplifier, then the cabling from main amp to the NHT amp. From there, the NHT amp splits off into the speakers and sub. Crossover set for lowest setting (35hz). Bypass (whatever that is) is set for ON. Overall sound is better in most regards but I notice a few things:

1. The 8" woofer on my NHT 2.5s don't seem to have a lot energy/sound coming from them. Crossover on NHT amp set for 35hz and specs on NHT 2.5 say 80hz. When I turn the crossover setting higher than 35hz on NHT amp, I get less sound from the NHT 2.5s.

2. Overall sound levels are much lower. I'm having the turn the level on the preamp much higher to get same db levels.

3. When I turn the NHT amp high enough to get the desired bass levels, I notice it picks up a large amount of mids thereby centering the soundstage around the sub (placed between the two speakers). When I dial the NHT amp down to get the right amount of soundstage, the bass seems a bit thin.
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