The interaction between the existing components and any new component is something that must be carefully considered when upgrading. Matching one item's weaknesses with another's strengths is a good way to balance the sound. Going the other way can be a good way to get into trouble. Many audiophiles try to contiuously increase the level of transparency in their systems only to find they are revealing characteristics in their gear (or their recordings) that maybe is better left undiscovered. It sometimes depends on whether you want to analyze or enjoy your music. Also, once you have a system that is musically balanced, you need to be very careful in making changes, unless you are prepared to totally redo the entire system.
the best not always the best
I am continuously trying to improve my top system, but always feel let down after each upgrade. However, I can always return to my Creek 4040s2, RALabs Speakers using a Macintosh Performa cd drive. this setup always sounds musical and I have no desire to change it. I want someone to explain to me why this is so?