what is my system's weakest link?


Hi,
I have put together and entry level system, and have been enjoying it for a while now and feel it might be time to step it up and upgrade.

My system consists of:
Thiel cs 1.5 speakers
rega brio-r integrated amp
pro ject debut III Turntable

I use my system for playing records almost exclusively

What component should I switch out/upgrade first?

I have been looking into Mcintosh c28 preamps as an option to switch my integrated with, had a chance to listen to a system with that c28 preamp and it sounded great , warm and very detailed, and it seems to be quite affordable

Any way any advice or tips on what my next move should be regarding new equipment that is relatively affordable ($600-$1300 price range) would be appreciated

thanks
Morey
moreytalmor

Showing 4 responses by moreytalmor

Thanks for all the feedback guys, I am definitely going to explore some upgraded cartridge options, still need to consider switching out the speakers, but will take it slowly.. hope I get to the right spot :)
Thanks guys this is very helpful,
I will definitely look into substituting my amp and perhaps enhancing my TT a bit via mat/platter/stylus upgrades.. any thoughts on what to get to spruce up the TT and any thoughts on my interest in getting that c-28 mcintosh + power amp as my new amplifiers? is it just a random obsession of mine or is this a good idea? :)
I see that the consensus seems to be that the speakers should be the first to go, I have to say that they would be my least preferred component to switch out, mainly because they fit beautifully in my space, which might not be able to accommodate every speaker, and though its superficial I really like the way they look, I have to say that the exterior of gear is quite important to me (and to my wife :)..) + speakers are hassle to have shipped to you etc.. oh and I think the sound great I mean I never thought they would be the main reason why my system isnt all it could be..

I guess thats why I felt prone to getting a new pre and power.. instead of the brio or perhaps getting a new cartridge for the TT or a new table altogether.. very confusing times.. hard to figure out what sould go :)..
Frogman - You're right I haven't supplied sufficient details of what I am looking for.. Ill try and be more specific, hope this wont be to rambly:

I think my system sounds good I enjoy it alot, however it does not provide me with as memorable and exciting listening experiences as when I had chances to listen to systems that use mainly vintage gear (I have this friend...).
I am looking for that kind of experience, where the the record/music makes the room come alive where you can feel the player or the instrument in the room with you, when you can really focus on one separated element in the music and discover hidden nuances and detail that you never knew were there, but not so much in a sterile way, but a "warm" sound that comes alive, full of gain and power to give the record new life and meaning. though im not sure its power im lacking in the current system I rarely surpass the middle of the volume dial.. I feel that there is definitely volume in my system.. or so I think.. its more that character detail and general "experience".. I guess I just want to go from great to really great or beyond

My room is about 10.5 f wide and about 30 f wide, its an old rail road apt, ceilings aint to high either, the speakers and the listening couch/"area" or on the 10.5 side opposite each other, probably about 7-7.5 feet from speaker to ear.
Ill try to post a pic,, though I know that my set up might be less than Ideal, but then again.. looks are important.

The 1300 would be without the proceeds.. haven't thought that trough I guess

The cartridge on my tt is the default cart that the pro ject debut III come with the Ortofon OM 5E.

Hope this will help with helping me :) thanks again