2. misc-audio
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Are There Improvements that Can Be Easily and Quickly Made Without Buying More Stuff?

I appreciate that there are many people on this forum who have put a great deal of thought and effort into how to improve their audio systems.  Most of the discussion relates to upgrading equipment.  This is natural as most people here want to improve their music experience, and better equipment is a way to do that.  I’ve taken advantage of this and made 5 or 6 upgrades over the last year!  The result has been great!  But are there some simple steps that can be taken that can be overlooked by someone who is newer to audio?

As examples I’ve read that facing a sub towards something like the back of a couch will improve its sound.  And for rooms with bad effects that can’t be fixed, move the listening position closer to the speakers.

‘What is your best tip for improving sound quality without buying anything?

128x128tcotruvo
baylinor's avatar
baylinor
1,238 posts
 

Without spending ANY money?

I'm stumped. Moving yourself or the speakers/subs positions is all I can think about. But I would think you already should have tried that. If money is available then move on to improving your room acoustics. Once you get that right, and only then, move on to equipment and accessories upgrades.

audioman58's avatar
audioman58
3,903 posts
 

If using Roon and have a fast computer with at least 500 gigs of dedicated space 

HQ player is built into the back end for powerful DSP that can make your digital much much better sounding.

styleman
132 posts
 

@ mikelavigne.  My God, your audio setup is incredible!   Good for you.

bigkidz
3,326 posts
 

IMO the best way to improve your sound is to upgrade the parts in your existing components.  Most parts are average at best.  Simple replacement of power supply caps from the old blue caps to Nichicon will improve your sound beyond most cables or power cords, room treatment or AC products.  Upgrade output capacitors to V-Caps another level.  Upgrade resistors to Takman, Amtrans, Audio Note, etc.

Happy Listening. 

wturkey's avatar
wturkey
734 posts
 

Ensure routing of wires is neat and tidy. If power cables must intersect with signal cables, make it at a 90 deg angle for as little interference as possible. 

Make sure speaker wires are tight. Check that all woofers, midranges and tweeters are tight in their respective locations and that none of the mounting fasteners have rattled loose. 

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