How can I improve my system


I have cobbled together quite a nice system over the years and have heard quite a few far more expensive systems that did not sound as good to my ears as what I have. However, I recently walked into a showroom and their setup blew mine out of the water, despite not being "ultra high-end". So now I'm wondering where I should upgrade to take my setup to the next level. The showroom system was all (expensive) Krell (10K pre, 10K power, 12K source), yet modest 10K Thiel speakers. I have source: heavily modified Denon 3910 + upgraded Audio Note 1.1 DAC, McCormack MAP1 pre (used mostly in "surround" mode). Odessey Stratos Mono Extreme Power and Silverline Audio LaFolia speakers. Misc. high quality cabling. I think my weakest link may be the Silverlines or the McCormack. I always liked the Revel Studios so this could be an options. Modding the MAP1 is also an options. Any suggestions are welcome.
edorr

Showing 1 response by newbee

You can do your own room analysis.There are numerous set up theories/formulas you can look at on the net - Cardas, Physic's, Donlevy's (as they applied to his speakers) and Rives has a CARA program on his site which allows you to plug in your room dimensions, speaker brand, and it will spit out a suggested starting point. Just a starting point! Use a SPL meter and a test disc with 1/3d octave pink noise to dial in your bass which you accomplish by speaker movements as well as listening chair movement, and when accomplished use your ears to fine tune imaging (mid/upper ffrequencies) by either toe in or room treatments to reduce reflections from side walls, floors, etc. This is not a plug an play process. Its going to take a long time with patience in listening and speaker/chair movements. You make a lot graphs showing the results of different placements so you can learn about your room and placements. It will help you in understand things about your room/set up sound which are susceptible to change and which are immutable. IMHO this is one of the most rewarding things you can do in audio unless you are capapable of making your own equipment. :-)

If you want to get some user comments/suggestions just list your room dimensions, describe your furniture types, rugs, bookcases, etc, their location, room openings, and windows. Folks will be happy to give you some recommendations, which will serve as a rough guide.

As a Silverline owner let me say that I think your speakers are about the last thing I would consider changing in your system. I totally agree with Tvad's comments. I almost bought them, but I selected the Boleros in the end.