I'm quite content with my 550 AX II and Compact 7's. I'm running a Kuzma table, Ref 313 arm, and EMT cart direct in to the very competent Lux phono section. There was a post I read that says the magic starts at 507. I can't comment on that, but would not discount the 550. I was concerned about lack of power, but that has not been an issue at all. I am in a medium size room...23 X 12 X 8 ft ceiling.
Help me complete my stereo system (Harbeth, ClearAudio Concept).
Hello Everyone,
I would like your help in completing my new 2 channel audio system. My room is approximately (11ft X 14ft X 9ft ceiling) or about 42 square meters.
I value good vinyl playback over streaming and CDs and listen mostly to small group jazz.
I want to stay within a reasonable budget, so I'm focused on entry level components from high quality companies. To give you an indication, I own a ClearAudio Concept with the Satisfy arm and MM cartridge.
As far as speakers are concerned, it will be either the Harbeth P3ESR or Compact 7s. I have auditioned both with expensive Accuphase amps and was blown away by the P3ESR, especially their natural, open sound and ability to fill a decent size room. C7s struck me as less dynamic ... but let me know if those would be preferable considering my space and listening tastes.
I am fairly certain that I will be favouring Solid State to drive the little Harbeth, and car analogy, realistically a well-tuned 4 cylinder turbo rather than a V8 with power to spare. I plan to add a DAC for streaming and radio, more as a convenience than anything else (serious listening is always vinyl). An onboard phono is preferred but not a deal breaker. Speakers and stands to be considered separately.
Thanking everyone for their help and comments.
I would like your help in completing my new 2 channel audio system. My room is approximately (11ft X 14ft X 9ft ceiling) or about 42 square meters.
I value good vinyl playback over streaming and CDs and listen mostly to small group jazz.
I want to stay within a reasonable budget, so I'm focused on entry level components from high quality companies. To give you an indication, I own a ClearAudio Concept with the Satisfy arm and MM cartridge.
As far as speakers are concerned, it will be either the Harbeth P3ESR or Compact 7s. I have auditioned both with expensive Accuphase amps and was blown away by the P3ESR, especially their natural, open sound and ability to fill a decent size room. C7s struck me as less dynamic ... but let me know if those would be preferable considering my space and listening tastes.
I am fairly certain that I will be favouring Solid State to drive the little Harbeth, and car analogy, realistically a well-tuned 4 cylinder turbo rather than a V8 with power to spare. I plan to add a DAC for streaming and radio, more as a convenience than anything else (serious listening is always vinyl). An onboard phono is preferred but not a deal breaker. Speakers and stands to be considered separately.
Thanking everyone for their help and comments.