2. misc-audio
  3. 1118776165

How do I go backwards?

I need the help of those people who have cut back on their systems. Due to the deep financial problems my health has created I need to sell off my system, either fully or partially. My system is a Sony SCD-1 (modified) front end, an Aesthetix Calypso pre-amp, two Plinius SA-102 amps bi-amped vertically, Dunlavy IVa speakers and all Nordost Valhalla cabling. My initial feeling is that the front end and speakers have the least value, in that Dunlavy is out of business and the Sony is modified. The cabling is by far the most out of line cost wise for the system I have so I’m looking at them first. So my first question is for people who have tried or sold their Valhalla cables for something substantially cheaper without loosing the detail, speed and transparency. Please speak from experience and what you felt was lost by going “backwards.” Secondly I’m going to need to sell one of the Plinius amps, and possibly both and replace with ????
My biggest concern is my system is so good and soooo musical I’m afraid stepping backward will result in a system that will no longer be enjoyable, and thus my love for recorded music will be lost. I hate to think of no music, but I know if my system looses too much, I’ll simply quit listening. I hope to avoid that.
Please share your experiences and your opinions on how to cut back.
Thank you
J.D.
128x128jadem6

Showing 1 response by cwlondon

cwlondon
1,210 posts
 
Jadem6

So sorry to hear of your situation, and I can relate having been forced for various reasons over the years to give up various things.

I understand why Bigjoe says, it is just "stuff" , but whenever I have put time and effort into assembling a system, maintaining or modifying a car, motorbike etc. for me it is much more emotional than just "stuff" it is a product of passion and effort and something that gathers experience and memories.

Here is potentially good news, however, and further evidence of the insanity of our hobby.

In one fairly recent move, I just didnt have enough room for my Tympanis, and my Levinson amp had to be sent back for service.

In the meantime, and to watch videos, etc, I dragged out a dusty old Naim Nait amp from the closet and bought a pair of Epos monitors deeply discounted at Audio Advisor.

Well guess what?

I think I listened more! It was great -- very forgiving and easy to listen to and when I was not so obsessed with tweakng out that last degree of high end performance, I just listened to the music.

Maybe there was something lucky about that combination but it makes me wonder if actually, in the end, mid fi is more fun.

Best of luck and get well soon.
More to discover