new Parasound A21+ vs my old Rotel RB-1080

Sterophile review parasound jc 1

I purchased a used pair of Parasound JC1 in 2014 and used them for 10 years -- they were very good. I wouldn't discourage you from buying those at Parasound's current good price.

Those were so good, in fact, that I traded them in last year for a new pair of JC1+. The difference was immediately and noticeably better -- better bass, better highs, and a lot more headroom. Best upgrade I've ever made. From the reviews, my impression is that the JC1+ can drive nearly anything you connect them too.

Good luck.

I have heard some people say the PS Audio DSDJr. can be a bit noisy.  If that is the case, it could be the reason you're not getting the clarity you want.  I have this DAC, and personally like it, but do believe some other DAC's I own are more resolute.  

jhnnrs is correct in his advice about raising the back of the ESL'S. I have ML Spires. I wasn't hearing much treble until I stood up to make an adjustment and there it was. Treble in spades! I found some books and started playing with the elevation. It totally corrected my treble and helped with the staging. Also toe in on at least my spires is not a correct way to set them. You need to find the instructions and get a flashlight and follow the instructions. The soundstage will come alive. It's going to be small though. I too owned a parasound a21. I compared it to a Butler amp I inherited and the parasound was soft. It didn't have the punch of the Butler so I sold it. Lastly, I too listen to a lot of Dead and Garcia band live. Enjoy!