System assessment...
Just retired...I have the time and interest to consider system upgrades. Although I have some very nice gear, I'm not sure about the synergy of the system as a whole. My system has been assembled over many years, gradualy making upgrades and improvements. Sadly, all changes have been done through thorough research, and educated risk taking.. I don't have access to a brick and mortar shop, a 5 hour drive to Chicago or Twin Cities...
I'm looking for opinions regarding my system. Do I have components that don't necessarily complement each other based upon others experience and opinions. I'm open to stepping back and rethinking the entire system if necessary. Below is a list of my components and speakers.
Aestthetix, Mimas , integrated w/DAC
Jay;s Audio M2 transport
VPI Prime w/ Shyla cart
Manley Chinook, Upscale Audio Special, phono
KEF ref. 1 (not Meta)
(2) REL SHO S/3 subs
Silversmith Fidelium speaker cables
My other cables are a hodgepodge collection of budget and midrange quality.
Any observations?
Thanks.
dsp is very frustrating to work with initially. The interfaces are horrifying to deal with. But if you think about what happens along curve if there are low spots or high spots that may tend to distort the overall signal, correcting these areas could add a lot of Sonic improvement. My home theater system when I do DSP really helps to energize what I'm listening to.
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I would try acoustic room treatments first. Even if you end up upgrading equipment, this will be helpful. It's probably the most inexpensive route as well. I found by adding absorption and diffraction in my rooms the sometimes shrill sounds I was hearing was improved. Rugs are easy. First reflection points and ceiling absorption helped me. Congrats on retirement! |
I believe your gear is just fine. I would listen to @rbstehno and take a serious look at room treatments, either acoustic or electronic, or a combination of both. May not be as sexy as some new gear but I think you would be very pleased with the results. BTW I would put DSP in the catagory of electronic room treatment and if done correctly can be very effective. As far as brick and mortar audio stores in the Twin Cities, I am aware of five. Choice Audio which was previously mentioned. https://choiceaudio.com/ Mpls. HiFi https://www.minneapolishifi.com/ I believe these first two are the new kids in town. There is also, Audio Perfection https://www.audioperfection.com/ HiFi Sound https://hifi-sound.com/ Stereoland https://stereoland.com/ These last three have been around for decades and still seem to be going strong. I’ve done business with Audio Perfection and I believe they know their stuff and what they are doing, but they can be a bit pricey. |
