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Need Help With a Bright System

My system consists of two NAD C 272 monoblocks, an NAD C 162 preamp, and an NAD T 532 DVD player. The speakers are Triangle Antal XS. My problem is that the system can sound pretty edgy and bright on many recordings, particularly rock and pop albums. One very noticeable aspect of this bright sound is edgy vocals that have exaggerated sibilants (i.e. ‘S’ sounds). I'm currently using a pair of Kimber Timbre interconnects between the preamp and monos, and Acoustic Research silver series interconnects between the dvd player and the preamp. I was using a pair of Kimber PBJs between the dvd player and preamp, but found the ARs to be warmer and better on the bass. The speaker cables are a pair of Straightwire Quartets, which I believe are plain copper. Does anyone have any suggestions on how to get rid of this bright sound? Obviously I wouldn't like to lose detail while doing so, but I understand that this may be a trade off. I'm willing to make a necessary upgrade, but I just want to ensure that whatever I chose to upgrade will definitely take away a lot of the brightness that I currently hear in this system. I know that using a tube amp instead of solid state would make a huge difference, but what else can be done?
jwglista

Showing 2 responses by sol322

sol322
426 posts
 
Jwglista:
Did you have previously everything except the Antals and sound was OK, i.e. better highs reproduction?

Do you have any power treatment for your source?

Have you tried any vibration tweaks specially on DVD player?

Try mass loading the DVD player and see what happens to highs. Add a book (2-3 lbs) to the top of the player and compare same song part with ot without it.

Is your system set on a rack / furniture type?
Your comments
sol322
426 posts
 
The power strip you mention IMHO won't help that much. Something at least at the level of Monster HTS2000 will be my first attempt to consider. Or better if a dealer can let you home try something.

Let us know what happens with the mass loading.

Do you have untreated reflective surfaces in your room? i.e. between your speakers, side walls. If this isn't the case seems you have a mismatching problem, you might lessen it's effects but have to live with it.
If you can swap your source with your father's you might know if source has a bearing with highs problem.
Good Luck
Luis
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