Best Value System

Actually, Shadorne, there is no 'best value' system without properly addressing a few fundatmental and universal issues.

And just because some to many may deny or ignore these fundamental and foundational issues does not mean that their effects and influences do not exist.

What I find rather humorous are those that fumble forever seeking 'best values' and better sonics when the proper foundation was never laid. And then defend their insignificance whilest chasing their tail around the expensive mulberry bush.

-IMO

Thf, I believe the best value system has far less to do with costs, components, and/or room acoustics than anyone (except perhaps me) would care to admit.

To qualify that statement I'll jump right in stating there are six requirements that I believe will make most any well-heeled system's sonics pale in significance. They are:

1. Properly executed AC power treatment that includes dedicated circuits/lines, cryo-treated outlets, plugs, connectors, and proper line conditioning.

2. Properly executed vibration control for components and speakers.

3. A magical amplifier. This may be the single most important ingredient. IMO, the amp is by far the most under-rated component and finding the right amp is like finding a needle in a haystack.

4. Decent quality or better full-range speakers.

5. Proper speaker placement. Proper placement can cover a multitude of sins in a room with less than desirable acoustics.

6. Proper ics and speaker cables should take any system with the first 4 ingredients over the top.

In my opinion, if a system falls short in just one of these 6 foundational categories, it probably ain't worth listening to.

On the other hand, if each of these categories has been properly addressed, there's probably but a few systems that could approach it's sonic pleasure.

-IMO

Thf, perhaps I wasn't clear either. What I was trying to say is that in my opinion and experience, there is no such thing as a 'best system' unless those ingredients I listed above have been properly addressed.

Metaphorically, you are a house builder and you are asking for specifics on how to build the best house possible. Yet you don't want to discuss what type of foundation in which to build on. Or perhaps you are simply unaware of it's signifiance.

I've heard way too many systems retailing for well over $100k that sounded no better than a $5k system. Simply because their configurations had no regard for the basic building blocks.

-IMO

I don't think you do understand. If you did, then you would realize that when the right foundation is in place, there are many more systems that could potentially be deemed a best value.

Nevertheless, since my own system has remained nearly unchanged for over two years and it's easily the best I've heard, I could point you toward my own system.

But that wouldn't go over very well, now would it?

-IMO

Shadorne, if that's what the 'pragmatic professional' is suggesting, then perhaps it's time to seek out another more realistic professional who just may be slightly more knowledgeable.

Most of those suggestions by the 'pragmatic professional' are simply non-sensical.

-IMO