ajk_mkm Posted November 10, 2020 Posted November 10, 2020 Hi guys. I’ve had the following system running for 10yrs and it’s time to start the upgrade process. I don’t have the funds to replace the lot but where would you start? Looking for advice. I’m also looking to add streaming to the system as the Mrs would like to use Spotify occasionally. Below is what I have currently. speakers: paradigm studio 60 v5 amp: Cambridge audio 640a V2 phono: Cambridge audio 551p Cart: Rega bias2 tt: Rega P3 with external PSU cd: Denon DVD-435 Keen to hear your opinions. Thanks in advance. 1
Ruffter Posted November 11, 2020 Posted November 11, 2020 @ajk_mkm What are you hoping to achieve? What don't you like? Out of that list I'd probably start at the amp. Or add something you don't have, in either a better DAC for your digital side, or a subwoofer. Cheers, Andrew 2
ajk_mkm Posted November 11, 2020 Author Posted November 11, 2020 I was also thinking DAC. I’m not unhappy with the sound just looking to start the upgrade process to work towards ‘better’ sound.
Pipey Posted November 11, 2020 Posted November 11, 2020 If you listen to CD regularly you will notice a difference using a dedicated CD player. Yeah 1
Irek Posted November 11, 2020 Posted November 11, 2020 You can get amplifier with streamer, or CD player with streamer. 1
Bunno77 Posted November 11, 2020 Posted November 11, 2020 All pretty balanced as is. You may get small improvements with a different amp, different CD player/DAC but you are probably looking at new speakers and amp together to achieve significant gains. Better speakers with current amp will be bottlenecked. Doesn't have to be expensive especially if you buy from here.
RCAJack Posted November 11, 2020 Posted November 11, 2020 (edited) Seems you're happy with the overall balance you have now? It's better if you can test new gear at home before you purchase, but I'd look at the front end and perhaps find a dealer who can let you compare properly. For the digital side I'd get a DAC, or dedicated CD player. Apparently your DVD player has optical out so there are good value budget options starting at ~$200. Agree with the above suggestions about adding a streamer. Alternatively, if you mainly listen to vinyl, I'd look at a cartridge upgrade, and possibly a light service of the turntable (such as a new belt and bearing lube). A better cartridge will make a huge difference. Rega's rationale for not including a user-replaceable stylus on the Bias 2 is fair enough, but I prefer to be able to swap the stylus myself, as is the norm for moving magnets. The cost of a new stylus is close to a new cartridge anyway. Edited May 20, 2021 by RCAJack Brevity
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