A lot of really good advice above.
If you're sure you want the Shearwaters, they may help correct what is bothering you. Then after that, you can make whatever additional fixes you feel you need. Otherwise, I think alot of good advice regarding cheap tweaks and cable changes has been given. I've tried some of the fixes mentioned. Some were temporary and others I've stayed with for awhile.
I've was able to reduce brightness a bit in my system by changing my interconnects from DH Labs BL-1 to Cardas Golden Cross. A much bigger difference was realized when I switched speaker cables from DH Labs Silversonic T-14 to Analysis Plus Oval 9. It had the effect of reducing brightness, creating a fuller, rounder sound, and greatly improving soundstaging.
Also, I've heard some differences trying the Black Diamond Racing Cones in my system. I purchased the mk3 which are said to have a dark sound quality. Under my DAC and CD player, I heard only minor changes. But under my Sim Audio Moon I-5 integrated amp, the difference was more noticeable. Warmer and and less strident, but it also had the effect of muddying up the bass.
The frustrating thing about this process, is it's so time consuming, and costly. Why can't we get what we want on the first try??!!! But then again, the process is what makes this hobby so dang fun!
If you're sure you want the Shearwaters, they may help correct what is bothering you. Then after that, you can make whatever additional fixes you feel you need. Otherwise, I think alot of good advice regarding cheap tweaks and cable changes has been given. I've tried some of the fixes mentioned. Some were temporary and others I've stayed with for awhile.
I've was able to reduce brightness a bit in my system by changing my interconnects from DH Labs BL-1 to Cardas Golden Cross. A much bigger difference was realized when I switched speaker cables from DH Labs Silversonic T-14 to Analysis Plus Oval 9. It had the effect of reducing brightness, creating a fuller, rounder sound, and greatly improving soundstaging.
Also, I've heard some differences trying the Black Diamond Racing Cones in my system. I purchased the mk3 which are said to have a dark sound quality. Under my DAC and CD player, I heard only minor changes. But under my Sim Audio Moon I-5 integrated amp, the difference was more noticeable. Warmer and and less strident, but it also had the effect of muddying up the bass.
The frustrating thing about this process, is it's so time consuming, and costly. Why can't we get what we want on the first try??!!! But then again, the process is what makes this hobby so dang fun!