Suggested upgrade paths

💥 what @lanx0003 said about replacing your source.  His specific suggestions for streamer/DAC combo are excellent choices.

2. fool around a bit more with the placement of the speakers in your room.

3.  What power cable are you using on your Rotel?  A better cable here could make a big difference - something like Anticable Level 3 is a good place to start.

4.  The suggestion to examine what you are using for speaker cables is also relevant, but not until you sort out the rest above in order suggested.

kn

@nucleardog61 I looked into your gear, and your Rotel amp and Wharfedale speakers are both highly regarded, and a little unforgiving.  This supports the value of upping your source game, and perhaps reviewing your cable loom.

Also, the Super Lintons are designed to operate with the grills on to avoid diffraction from the bevels on the front cabinet edges. Failing to operate as advised by the manufacturer could contribute to what you’re experiencing at higher volumes. Don’t know if this applies to you, but I strongly suggest leaving the grills on.

At least one reviewer noted that the Super Lintons take at least 30 hours to break in and for sibilants in the treble to smooth out.

Finally, the double edge of having highly resolving gear is that less well produced or compressed recordings will be revealed - especially at higher volumes.  If 1980s pop music is your bread and butter, a warmer setup might work better for you in your room for you.  Although, curiously, a better source and even help with that.

Good luck,

kn