Components purchased used, except Monster power and cables which were new on dealer introduction, or specials. I don't use the analog front end very much so this is primarily a CD based system. The system has excellent clarity and detail, it's mostly British and is very neutral. I replaced an Audiolab pre with the LS7 (NOS Amperex 7308) to add some warmth to the system Always looking to improve, so what's the next step. Which component would you upgrade first? With what, and why?
System edited: Replaced Audiolab 8000DAC with Theta DS Pro Basic IIIA DAC. Replaced NOS Amperex 7308 with NOS Telefunken E188CC on followers, drivers still using NOS Amperex 7308. Added Herbie's HAL-O 9 pin tube dampers on preamp, Townshend CD seismic sink under transport, and replaced SE IC's with balanced IC's. Improvements all round. Will begin to look at transport, and amplification changes next. Recommendations?
After taking a quick look, I think you could add some Black Diamond Racing cones and a more recent DAC. If you like the old school digital, you'll probably enjoy one of the EAD dacs here on the gon for 300-400$. Also, pick up a Rogue Magnum 66 or 99 pre-amp. You didn't specify budget, but I'm just throwing out some suggestions. Let us know what you end up doing. Eric
