Variations in how your system sounds?

"I would describe it as a slight lack of focus and dynamics.* This has happened through many changes of all components."

I've had similar issue in the past. Check your incoming ac voltage, usually a drop would result as such*. Whereas, an increase could have it sounding too controlled and pinched. Get a power conditioner incorporating stabilizer, or, if separately, a good stabilizer along with your conditioner. I've learnt it's not so much about ac quality in this case, but more likely the irregularities of it being the culprit.

You didn't mention if the problem shows up with all sources , that may tell you allot . I used to have an issue with music sounding better in the evening , I upgraded to a high end conditioner and that problem was solved .

If I am extremely stressed or fatigued, my system just doesn't sound right - as you describe unfocused with flat dynamics. Over several years, I'd experienced this with frustrating irregularity. Then I discovered that when I ingest a B-complex multivitamin the night before, my system always sound oh so right, glorious, the following evening. I have reproduced this phenomenon enough times that I cam convinced of the causality. From a medical standpoint (I am a physician) a logical explanation can be made, having to do with neurotransmitter depletion and general neuronal fatigue. As an aside,I have completely foresworn any alcohol in my diet for 5 years now; for me, alcohol consistently smears and thoroughly ruins the critical listening experience, even in small doses.

'for me, alcohol consistently smears and thoroughly ruins the critical listening experience, even in small doses.'

I have found the opposite to be true in my case. A couple of shots of I.W. Harper, and my speakers sound like the Wilson Maxx.

Rok2id...from earlier in the thread: "I recently bought a Hi-Fi Choice magazine with a free System Set-Up disc." That's how. I'm here to help.

I have to warn the doctor that by "foreswearing alcohol" the girls will not get prettier at closing time, and telling 'em you're into B vitamins...well...that just never works.