What's my best upgrade options


Hello Audiogon forum,

I have an opportunity to upgrade something, but I'm unsure what the best option would be.  I just got a pair of Magico A5s, and they were a huge upgrade to my system.  I think what I'm looking for is more clarity, more crystal clear detail, maybe lower noise floor, if that makes sense.  I have an ARC Ref 150, PS audio BHK pre and stellar phono pre.  My sources are a Rega P3 with an older Ortofon MC 30 and a Cary audio CD500 cd player.  My cables are a mix of whatever I got from a dealer buying complete systems a long time ago, and some i've bought since.  I also have a surge protector I run everything thru, except the amp, I run it directly into the wall.

My options are a PS audio power conditioner, a rega P6 with newer ortofon MC cartridge, maybe a PS audio CD player or jay's audio CD player.  I could also get better speaker cable, and / or XLRs.

Thanks y'all.  1st post!

dothebluecolts

Just another two cents:  If vinyl is your jam and Rega P6 is about where your budget price point is, take a serious look at the Mofi TT's (i.e.  more bang for your buck).  Also, if you don't already have a record cleaning system I would seriously consider one (i.e.  ultrasonic).

As virtually everybody has suggested, get a new turntable/arm/cartridge.  Plan on spending in the $5 to 10k range.  If that's beyond your current budget, then save up until it's doable.  Don't make any half-step moves!  Also sort out your cables.  Definitely go balanced where applicable and try to stick to only a single manufacturer.  You don't have to spend large dollars to get good sound from cables.  You might even want to sort out the cables first because it will allow you to better evaluate subsequent changes to your system.  Finally, there are better CD players.  Prices vary, but there is good value in Marantz, Denon and Teac/Esoteric models.

Everything I've suggested assumes you have already paid meticulous attention to loudspeaker/listener room positioning.  It doesn't cost you anything but time.

Good luck!

P.S.  Is there really a Capt. Janeway statue in Bloomington?

I recommend that you start with a new cartridge; Ortofon Cadenza Bronze. From there go with a new table, perhaps a Rega P8 if you like Rega. I have a new P10 as one of my tables and I like it very much. After the table, I would begin experimenting with cables.

I agree with those who recommend starting at the source, TT or DAC and Transport. 

Whatever you do, don't waste your money on cables or power cords. As long as you've got OFC cables, nothing you buy will change the sound AT ALL, save for longer runs that may need 12AWG instead of 14/16AWG.