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what should I upgrade next?

I had an old stereo system which consisted of:

NAD 302 integrated amplifier
NAD 502 CD-player
NAD 402 tuner
Linn Index speakers
Linn k-20 speaker cables
Sony DVD player

Few weeks ago I started upgrading my old system for HT. After some research I got the following:

Linn Trikan center speaker
Linn Unik surround speakers
Linn Afekt subwoofer
NAD T753 a/v receiver
Monster interconnect cables
(I will be using the old Linn Index in the front)

I am getting a new NAD T753 from my dealer, since the first one had the hiss problem. I hope the new one will be OK.
First, do you see something wrong with my choices (well I guess now it is too late since I made the purchase already)? What do you think is my weak point / or what should I upgrade next?
Your opinion will be very helpful, since I am a newbie.
Thanks!
plamenz

Showing 2 responses by rar1

rar1's avatar
rar1
1,811 posts
 
Plamenz:

What exactly about the sound of your new equipment do you not like? From a previous thread, you had said that you liked the sound of your old NAD amplifier, better than the new HT receiver (on the face of it, not a big surprise given that you are comparing separates to a receiver) ... but you weren't more specific. I would also sit tight, until you receive your new NAD receiver ... since the current one has a hiss problem. I can understand the frustration ... you upgrade and you can't even enjoy the new goods.

Regards, Rich
rar1's avatar
rar1
1,811 posts
 
Plamenz:

If I understand your comments correctly, I can come to 3 conclusions:

1. you seem to be satisfied with the Linn Index speakers, as they are still being used as front speakers.
2. you are definitely not happy with the NAD HT receiver.
3. your SONY DVD player is not contributing to your displeasure with the overall music sound, even though is about 5 years old. Since the DVD player is not your music source, it's a non-factor at this point (my guess is that you have a S360D or S560D ... which were excellent with movies, but terrible with CD's.)

So, what to do? Two choices really:

1. Exchange the NAD HT receiver for another HT receiver ... assuming that your dealer will play ball with you and has other brands to choose from. From everything that I have read, the Arcam HT receivers (AVR100) do a very good job with music. Price tag is about $1200 (and I do not know your budget and accordingly, should not be spending your money). If the Arcam is not a brand that your dealer has, the Denon 3805 could be a possibility. If these are both too pricey, take a look at the Denon 2805 in the $800 to $900 range. Denon has really improved this model from its 2801 incarnation a few years ago ... the 2805 should be on-par with your NAD 302.

2. Go with a separate 2 channel amplifier for music and use the NAD for movies. You will be doing that whole PREAMP OUT switching thing ... but that may be OK for now.

Do not go chasing cables or other accessories at this point as possible solutions ... as you are unhappy with the NAD's basic sound. Cables and the such are usually "incremental, in addition to" type improvements that rarely offer complete transformation. Also, worry about the DVD player later ... get the amplification issue settled.

Regards, Rich
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