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Possible Upgrade

Hi-

A buddy of mine recommended your site. I'm possibly looking to upgrade my system and wanted to get some thoughts. The current system consists of a Carver TFM-45 amp with a Carver C-5 Pre-amp/tuner. I listen to some vinyl on my old Harmon Kardon straight line turntable. Just about everythi9ng else is Pandora or FLAC tracks using my Sonos .Speakers are Definitive Technology RLSII's. I have a Paradigm subwoofer also in the mix.  Speakers are non negotiable - I'm married and the wife won't go for anything else. Would I notice much of a difference if I were to say swap out the Carver to a McIntosh 6300 -6500? I'm looking for something mainstream that won't break the bank. Thoughts or suggestions would be welcome!


Thanks

malibupacific

Showing 7 responses by malibupacific

malibupacific OP
14 posts
 
It just doesn't have any "Pop". Maybe it's me - I'm 61 years old - but it's sounds very flat to me. Not any life to it. I listen to mostly classical and jazz.  PS I forgot to mention I have a Yamaha GE-60 equalizer in the chain.
malibupacific OP
14 posts
 

You're probably right. keep reading about the "warm" sound of different components and the advantage of using a stand alone DAC. I guess I was looking for the magic bullet that wasn't going to cost me an arm and a leg.


Thank you

malibupacific OP
14 posts
 

I wish I could change out the speakers - but I'll have to get a divorce first... Talk to me about a DAC. That seems like an improvement that won't cost an arm and a leg. I saw a Wyred 4 Sound one for sale on the site for $475. I've also read some good things about a Schitt Bitfrost. Both are within the budget. I do have a Sony Hi- Res. Walkman loaded with FLAC files on it... This it will make a noticeable
difference?

Thanks!

malibupacific OP
14 posts
 
This is getting interesting... Should I ditch the Sonos and get a music server that will connect to my FLAC files as well as music services? Any reasonable recommendations? Something with a decent DAC built in?
malibupacific OP
14 posts
 
So know you got me thinking...  The Bluesound sounds promising and certainly the price is right. What are your thoughts about ditching the Carver Pre-Amp and running everything through a Cambridge Audio CXN or Azur 851n? That way I have a streamer DAC and preamp al in one...
malibupacific OP
14 posts
 
I'm sure it's a bit of both. I own a Sony Hi-Res walkman and I LOVE listing to it. I use either the Sony earbuds or Sony MDR-1A over the ear phones and the sound is great. Mind you - this is maybe slightly above average equipment...nothing audiophile grade.  I really feel like I'm in the room with the musicians. Is it just the experience of headphones?
malibupacific OP
14 posts
 
So you think it's worth entertaining the thought of getting rid of the Sonos and looking into an Cambridge Azur?
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