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The next step to a better system

Hi everyone

I have been putting together a system for the last few years and need some of your wise and varied knowledge to help me take the next step.

My current system is

Harman Kardon HK990 intergrated

Revel F52 speakers

SVS PB12 NSD Sub

VPI Aries Scout with an Ortofon 2m Bronze mm cart

Herron VTPH 1mm phono preamp

Onkyo CDP DXC390

Belden BJC LC-1 interconnects

12 gauge, 87 strand, oxygen free copper speaker cables

Every step I've taken so far has lead me to a better audio listening place. 

I would also like to figure out the best way to introduce a good digital music source into my system. Currently I just hook up my smart phone through an Aux on the HK990 and listen to Pandora and Spotify. 

And of course I would like to improve on the analogue side of my system.

So any guidance would be helpful.

Thank for your time and knowledge

meambler

Showing 8 responses by meambler

meambler OP
102 posts
 
Hi Milpai,

I'm open to all suggestions.

I have done a lot of research concerning speaker placement and have spent the time experimenting with different placements. The one constant being that the distance between the speakers is the same as the distance from the speakers to my listening position.  

The room is 24' x 15' with 9' drop ceiling. I don't have a lot of bare walls. There are canvas paintings,  Bookcases, plants, wall to wall berber carpeting over wood floors. It's on a second floor. The speakers are spiked and on painted particular board slightly larger then the base of the speakers. There is lots of wood / fabric furniture in the room and the windows have sheers and drapes.

meambler OP
102 posts
 
Thanks Mesch,

Could you recommend an external DAC or 2.

What specs would I be looking for in a great DAC?

meambler OP
102 posts
 
Thanks Mesch,

After some digging around I am looking at a Cambridge Audio Azur 851D. They retail for around $1650 but I found a new one on sale for $799. It seems to be very versatile unit.

Specs are here… http://www.stereophile.com/content/cambridge-audio-azur-851d-da-processor-specifications#5VOidqojFAd…

I like the fact it has bluetooth capabilities.

Also looked at a Benchmark DAC2 HGC ($1995). It's supposed to sound better but at a difference of $1196 I'm leaning towards the Cambridge and putting the difference towards a new cartridge or the SVS SB13 Ultra Sub.

Thoughts?


meambler OP
102 posts
 
I did check out the Schiit Audio DACs. They seemed nice but I like having options and they were pretty straight forward.


meambler OP
102 posts
 
It does have a USB. But now another decision... The Cambridge 851D or the Oppo 105?
meambler OP
102 posts
 
The 851D is a DAC and preamp… no cd.

The 851C is a Dac and cd player.

I currently use a Play Station-3 for dvd / blueray and am very happy with the results. I'm more interest in the DAC for my 2 channel system.

I believe the Oppo can run DSD but the Cambridge does not. Don't actually know what that is or if I would use it.

I suspect running my Onkyo cdp through the Cambridge would significantly upgrade the sound qualities coming from it.  

meambler OP
102 posts
 
I recently added an Oppo 105D and I really like the sound it is producing.

I wanted to use Tidal but at $20 a month for now I'll stick with Pandora, iTunes, Youtube. 

Are there other free or lower cost options for high quality streaming?




meambler OP
102 posts
 
Thanks guys,

Are there any great sources to refer to for room treatments?

Ptss… I was looking into the AC power conditioning end of things. In your opinion at what price is someone just throwing money away concerning power conditioning products?

I was looking at the Furman brand.




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