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The next step to a better system

Hi everyone

I have been putting together a system for the last few years and need some of your wise and varied knowledge to help me take the next step.

My current system is

Harman Kardon HK990 intergrated

Revel F52 speakers

SVS PB12 NSD Sub

VPI Aries Scout with an Ortofon 2m Bronze mm cart

Herron VTPH 1mm phono preamp

Onkyo CDP DXC390

Belden BJC LC-1 interconnects

12 gauge, 87 strand, oxygen free copper speaker cables

Every step I've taken so far has lead me to a better audio listening place. 

I would also like to figure out the best way to introduce a good digital music source into my system. Currently I just hook up my smart phone through an Aux on the HK990 and listen to Pandora and Spotify. 

And of course I would like to improve on the analogue side of my system.

So any guidance would be helpful.

Thank for your time and knowledge

meambler
shaqspack's avatar
shaqspack
91 posts
 
I would see if upgrading speaker cables and interconnects. I know it sounds like VooDoo but after listening to basic OTC stuff to hi end "wires" made a great difference. I would start with a good (not a surge supressor, a good one) and a power cord. The Cable Company has a good "Library lending" program where you can try cables out before buying. We are talking subtle changes but should benefit entire system

marktomaras
544 posts
 
For streaming consider the Bluesound Node 2 and a subscription to Tidal HiFi with uncompressed cd quality streams.  You can use the onboard DAC for starters or connect to a DAC of your choosing.

 On the analog front, I would say your cartridge may be interesting to upgrade. It seems your phono preamp can handle a moving coil cartridge, so perhaps a nice step up in that department would be very worthwhile.  I highly recommend the Lyra Delos.
adg101
1,057 posts
 
I use Spotify at my office and love the almost endless library of music out there as I’m always discovering artist I’ve never heard of daily. I’ve not tried Spotify at home on my main system so I can’t speak how it sounds but I’ve read plenty about how Tidal is much better. As far as hooking my iPhone up through an aux input I’ve not tried that either, but I can’t imagine it’s that great. Definitely agree with the post above.

As far as your system vs your cables go; you have a nice system that I think you’ll find a cable upgrade will be well worth it. The Cable Co. as mentioned is a great and safe source. Another great option that is just as safe is Clear Day Cables. Paul’s cable are outstanding and he is the nicest guy in the business that strives to have happy customers. If you don’t like his cables or they just don’t work in your system he will happily refund your money. Are Clear Day Cables the best cable out there? No. You’ll have to spend a lot more to better them and if you search on this forum there are many happy users here that state the same.

If you where going to upgrade your cables, what’s your budget? That will help others give you helpful and realistic suggestions.

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