Hi everyone, well, as you can see I have some decent components mixed in with some not-so-decent. I'm trying to decide where the next best upgrade path would be. I'm either looking at upgrading the source or going to a high quality subwoofer. I'm looking to spend between 3-450 on the source and roughly 200-300 on the subwoofer. Do you guys have any good ideas? Also, what are some of the weak links in my sytem (cables?). Any comments appreciated!
This is the best sounding system I've heard for the price, it really gives incredible imaging!
Congrats ! Hope you enjoy the sub for a long time to come !
As for interconnects: www.auralthrillsaudio, or EBay user auralthrillsaudio. Chrome Axiom interconnect, $60/M, incredible soudn for cheap money. Slightly richor warm sounding, but is absolutely my new budget champ ! If you decide to get, tell Tom that Todd in MA recommended him.
Here's one to try: bring your CD player into the store, and see if they'll do a side by side with another....
It might be tough to do, especially if there's no local dealer for what you want. In that case, word of mouth may be the best bet. One point, though, in getting a used Arcam, you at least are familiar with that "sound." And it's a great thought, too, IMO, I think Arcam makes very nice stuff for the money.
BTW, I just rechecked the Aural Thrills web site, and they offer a 30 day trial period. If you don't like 'em, send 'em back, you're only out shipping. Maybe some other places will do this, too.
Very nicely done, IMO ! The Arcam and Axiom units are a great basis, it must be pretty musical.....
My thoughts on upgrades if you desire:
- CD player - go for a nicer used unit, maybe a Music Hall 25, Shanling equivalent, or even a Sony SACD player (they have been reviewed to generally have pretty nice CD playback)
- Interconnects - check out www.auralthrillsaudio.com; their Chrome Axiom at $60 is KILLER for the money, my definite budget reference. A little rich or full sounding, but competes with cables hundreds of $ more expensive
- Speaker cable - many options. Zu Cable, Kimber, the cheap JPS, I'm sure others can recommend a lot more.....
The CD and interconnects are my recommendations for cheap but worthwhile upgrades. I'm not familiar with the Monster XP-HP speaker cable, so I can't say for sure what would be a good upgrade comparatively....
