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What would you upgrade next ??

My system is finally sounding pretty good. Actually gives me goosebumps. But I'm always looking for the "weak link" in the system. I'd like opinions on what to upgrade next. I'm looking for retrieval of micro-details, air and space around each instrument and voice, 3D imaging, "palpability" of all the voices and instruments. Here is my system:
CDP: Arcam FMJ CD23T
Pre: ARC SP3c (complete upgrade/restoration at factory)
Pwr: ARC VT100 MkII (just re-tubed)
Spkrs: Acoustic Zen Adagio
Sub: Focal JM Labs SW900
Interconnect and Spkr Cables: Analysis Plus
Other: Speltz Autoformer set for 2X, use 8 ohms taps.

Thanks for your inputs.
MABonn
mabonn

Showing 4 responses by sugarbrie

sugarbrie
3,854 posts
 
Don't upgrade. Add a turntable.
sugarbrie
3,854 posts
 
You have a decent CD player already. To really upgrade from there I would recommend you look at a separate DAC (a really good one).

Do you have a budget? Does the Arcam have a digital output?
sugarbrie
3,854 posts
 
Have you done anything with AC power cables, conditioning, and segregating/isolating the digital and analog with regards to AC power ??

I do not think $1500 to $2000 for a (new) DAC is going to make that much of a difference. Probably needs to be double that to make it worth while.
sugarbrie
3,854 posts
 
The Burr Brown module is just a digital chipset. It is what goes around it that matters. Great tubes will not make a dirt cheap amplifier into a Conrad Johnson Premier or ART. Putting the best Michelin tires on a Chevy Cobalt will not make it into a BMW M3.

A separate DAC is like a separate anything. If not, we might as well all buy an integrated receiver with a built in DVD player. (Which is available)

Jaybo...
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