Suggested upgrade paths
So, I am looking at spending 5k to improve the sound of my very modest system. I currently have a Rotel 1592. Being fed by an Eversolo DMP A6. I’m using the Rotel DAC, as I didn’t like the ESS DAC. This feeds a pair of Wharfedale Super Lintons.
While it sounds ok with the volume at 60-65. If I want it louder, the treble is shrill to my ears and the bass not as clear/punchy as I prefer. I run the bass at +3. I am considering purchasing a subwoofer, along with a DAC/DDC.
The room is roughly 450 sq ft with 10’-12’ coved ceiling. Looking for upgrade path suggestions for the mentioned 5k investment. Thanks in advance.
Used Harbeth Super HL5+ XD. Be careful on model number easy to mess up for they has updated over the years. $5k plus or minus. Audiogon, The Music Room and US Audio Mart has them. I bought a used pair of Rosewood and I’m very happy with them. They are called “Bookshelf” speakers. I do not no of any bookshelf that is large enough for the Harbeths to fit. Note: The Ton Trager Stands are not California certified. Just joking but they will not hold up to some earthquakes.
|
With my Harbeth Super HL5+ XD, the singer is close to live. Voice clear. Mid range I do not see an issue. Of course it's system dependent but they are capable of putting out a full range. Having a well produced recordings helps to evaluate. Helps a lot. Changing out speaker cables makes sense. I doubt it will help but it does not hurt to try. Speaker cables do matter. |
Just thought about my statement. If it's not the room, you're going to find the source by starting to change out the equipment. @pmm is most likely right. i had Klipschs Heresy IV, and I found the highs were fatiguing. After about an hour, that was enough listening. I was relieved when I sold them. |
Looking at the specs of all your equipment, you should have no issues unless something is defective, even in an 80+dB territory. You should cruise in the 70s with no problems. Your speakers not sure. The amp should be good for 10-20+ years. Rotel is a respectable brand. This gets me thinking. I brought out my PS Audio Sprout, which is 3 lbs, has Bluetooth, built-in DAC and headphone output. Price is about $700. Pushed it into the 70s with peaks of 85 dB, and it produced no sound characteristic that you described in your system. While off the wall comparisons, I do not see your equipment being a problem. One could say I can not distinguish the difference between a low resolution and a high one. See my virtual system. The Sprout may be a little squirt, but it puts out some good tunes. I can not imagine your equipment sounds any less. I'm sure more. What's the sequence for implementing your system? What came first and so on? At what point did you experience the sound issue? Note: Doing my Sprout testing at high volume has my tennisus loud. Perhaps peaking at 85 dB did the trick. |
