Music is important. Have multiple NAD or Adcom based systems with Paradigm or NHT speakers in bedrooms, office etc. This is the main rig I obsess over and enjoy. I listen to a very wide variety of music from classic rock, to pop, country, blues and jazz.
Always looking to upgrade on a budget, I have roughly $9600 invested or about 50% of retail price. All bought through Audiogon.
System is very musical with detailed but non fatiguing highs, smooth mid range and good tight bass. I feel I can see (hear) deep into the recording and enjoy the space around the instruments and the natural decay of the notes, especially on analog recordings.
The addition of the Marantz SA11 makes cd's and lp's very comparable in my system. I love the sound now and keep fighting my urge to change. I have audiophile sickness and always seem to want to tinker. Room treatments are the logical step, but have WAF issues there. The C-J CT-5 pre or a VPI tt or a B&W diamond speaker seem to be calling my name, but I try to ignore the calls and listen to the music.
System edited: Added a 3.2cr amp for biamping. Gives system needed power, which not only allows for increased volume, but more importantly, makes low volume listening fuller.
Thanks for the responses. I feel a bit like the advertising executive who is delighted everyone recognizes the commercial but realizes no one remembers what product was advertised. My kids will not starve and will get through college. No sympathy required, we chose to accept them from God willingly.
Comments on the system are appreciated. Opinions on how components match, upgrade suggestions (C-J amp? MF 3.24 dac? Anodyne 802 bass filter?).
It is an issue. Money spent now is not money saved for later, so there has to be a balance. The question is, "How much is enough?" If one can hear the difference in components and if one likes music, then upgrading for decreasing benefits can always be lurking on the horizon. I struggle with the same issues and have only entry level Marantz Reference monoblocks, kimber cables, and PSB Bronzes. I applaud you for holding it to the $5000 range and buying used gear. My goal has been and is to hold the line on components, focus on the music(CD and Sacd),and continue to save for college/retirement. Looking at Audiogon every day does not make it easy. "Nothing is enough for the person to whom enough is too little." Epicuris Jndean
what's more important- your stereo or the kid's education? Just curious, as the title of your thread indicates an appropriation of the college funds! :-)
