The majority of components have the same weakness, lack of high-frequency dynamics. This is what gets you the cow bell. This is not frequency response, but transient response. Your components are good circuit designs, all of them and you have obviously made good choices. However, dont expect to replace them and remedy this problem. There is also probably some sibilance that is preventing a "black background" due to cables and source.
Dont get me wrong. It is possible to approach liveness if you have $200K to spend on equipment and cables. However, the smart road to liveness IMO is mods, particularly the front end and amps.
Steve N.
Empirical Audio
Manufacturer
Dont get me wrong. It is possible to approach liveness if you have $200K to spend on equipment and cables. However, the smart road to liveness IMO is mods, particularly the front end and amps.
Steve N.
Empirical Audio
Manufacturer