2. misc-audio
  3. 965686795

TO upgrade or NOT, that is the question!

I have an old Onkyo Tx-7000 90wpc. reciever that is 15 yrs. old. This was the top of the line model at that time. My question is would i get better sound quality from a newer integrated amp? I just listen to music cd's, no ht or surround. My system is Klipsch reference 3 mains (98db.) and M+K V125 sub. Listening area is 14x21 Cd player is Sony CDP-CX210 (kinda cheap but i like it). Speaker wire Monster 12 ga. time correct, Monster Interlink 400 interconnects. Here's the kicker, i only have $500 to $600 to spend. Please give me any suggestions that would be helpful. I'm just a novice looking for advice, Thanks Please list make and model #'s if you have integrated amp suggestions please
mrsoundman
murphy_t
12 posts
 
I would first upgrade the interconnects. HCM audio has a lot of cables on their closeout list or you can make your own using pure silver wire. I purchased an Audio Magic digital cable from HCM, sounded good for a budget cable, I think their audio cables are the same (good bang for the buck). I had some Monster interlink 400's, had to replace them even in my bedroom system. I also replaced Monster speaker wire (M750, quite a few steps up from yours) with home made cable. Big improvement for not much money, see the RJM audio cable website or other DIY cable sites. These changes will give you a better idea of what your system really sounds like. You still may decide to upgrade but at least you would be making you decision from a better perspective. Good luck, Tim
sugarbrie
3,854 posts
 
If you just want a receiver and just listen to music definitely keep your old Onkyo Receiver. It was made for playing music and since yours was the top of the line no current receiver except for maybe the top NAD or Rotel 950 will beat it. New receivers are digital and made for home theater, not music. They are all computer chips etc. Your old receiver has capacitors and the older technology still used in audio power amps made today. I agree with the interconnect comment. Try Nordost Solar Wind or Van Den Hul PB5-HB or D102Mk111. If on a low budget try Straightwire Chorus. I am NOT a big fan of monster interconnects. Monster rip off. Also try a budget power conditioner. Monster Power is OK here. My recommendation is VansEvers Super Companion which lists for $150 but can be had for $129 on one of the VansEvers' web sites dealer links. If that is above your budget get a VansEvers Companion which sells for $25 to $30. It will improve the sound because it does nothing to the sound, where most cheap power strips ruin the sound. Skip the Adcom ACE515 it is over-rated.
sugarbrie
3,854 posts
 
PS: The best deal in a integrated amp is a used Cambridge Audio A3i. Comes with a great MM phono stage so you can play records too. Can be had for around $300 used. AudioAdvisor has a couple demos for sale. Also check the web site of Hawthorne Stereo in Seattle
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