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First "audiophile" system, now what? Any easy fixes here?

After being distracted with mp3s and the TV AVR, I finally realized I missed having a dedicated stereo system; and I missed my records. With a budget of $2400, here is what I put together:
  ProJect Carbon 1 w/TizoAcrylic platter and Ortofon Red cartridge,
  Hagerman Bugle2 preamp, 
  Vincent V-60 integrated tube amp, 
  Martin Logan 12 speakers.
 No special wires or cables. My room is 14x19 that is open to the kitchen. Compared to what I had been hearing, this system sounds fabulous. But now I want more fabulous. So I am writing to seek help on making short term/long term plans to upgrade. Short term means the biggest improvement in sound that costs $500 or less. The long term plan could cost maybe $2-3k or more. I have read that going from Ortofon Red to Blue might be a an inexpensive but very noticeable improvement? If speakers are my weak link, then maybe Martin Logan electrostatics would be good (when my ship comes in)?
I welcome any suggestions.
128x128etwilley
5 responses Add your response
williewonka
3,065 posts
 
Etwilley, you are in about the "same place" I was a few years ago.

I fealt that the system components were adequate, but believed there were some areas that needed to be addressed.

I started looking into cables and started by upgrading the power side. After that I focussed on speaker and interconnects.Lastly I addressed room treatments.

I found focussing on one area at a time allowed me to understand the various nuances and stopped me from falling into component upgrades. It also allowed me to see exactly how good each component could really perform.

I still have not changed any component, but I now know that each component is performing to its maximum ability and exactly which component is my week link.

just another approach :-)

enjoy the journey
bpoletti
1,525 posts
 
Don't worry about upgrading for a while.  Just enjoy the music.  Enjoy what a nice system like yours will give back to you. 
mesch
3,394 posts
 
I understand that the 2M blue stylus can be substituted for the red on the red body. I am not sure of the cost differential but have read it makes for a significant upgrade. 

I agree with freediver regarding room treatments. Can be DIY. 
dentdog's avatar
dentdog
469 posts
 
Get some Zu Soul Supreme speakers and it will astound you with dynamics and great bass.
freediver
1,010 posts
 
You say it sounds fabulous but you want MORE fab?What exactly do you want more of?Deeper,tighter bass?More organic mids,farther extended treble?
 How's the room acoustics?$500.00 will get some serious treatment that should be a worthwhile investment & serve further upgrades...
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