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. ā€˜Sā€™ 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
Good suggestion. I'm really enjoying these Studio 60s. I may try and find a set used instead of doing research and buying another pair without hearing them first. I imagine I can pick up a pair of Studio 60 v3's for about $900 here on AudioGon. I think these speakers would also sound really good with a hybrid amp...
My overall impression of Kimber ic's is that they tend to be analytical with emphasis in the top end.A Transparent Cable or older MIT 330 IC's would eleviate the problem,plus give u more solid bass response.The MIT's have this even consistent sound from top to bottom.Some of the Kimber Silver is very transparent,and will just magnify the shortcomings of a front end.
Keep your Triangle's. I have Revel M20 monitors, known to be very revealing and for a somewhat analytical top end. They are driven by a Krell amp (also somewhat edgy) and a Meridian 24 bit DAC (very detailed). Cables by Cardas Golden X and Transparent Super work wonders here as they deliver so much music in a warmer flavor. Staightwires are exceptionally detailed but do not work well with bright systems. Don't think of cables as accessories, they are true components and spending the money makes it worthwhile if you want to really feel the music.
I will say this one more time. SELL THE SPEAKERS! They are your problem.

Sure they image but they are mechanical sounding, bright, and just not pleasant to listen to.

Why would you want to keep them?