2. amps-preamps
  3. 1055047178

source disappointment

I have built a system that I would guess is fairly revealing(in my limited experience), and have begun experimentation with the CD Source.

Signal Cable Analog 2
Cary SLP 88 pre
Zcable Live V3
Cary 2A3 se monoblocks
Elco Sti-2b Silver Bi-wire (used as single for soliloquys)
Soliloquy 2A3 monitors

Sennheiser HD590

I recently purchased a used Audio Note CD 2 to replace the use of my Panasonic XP50 DVD/DVD-A, player which I assumed was not much of a source, though it does have a remastering upsample feature.

In several extended listening sessions using various albums I have been unable to detect any sonic improvement offered by the Audio Note which I purchased because of their reputation for analog sound. I actually A/B'd a getz/gilberto cd I had two copies of, syncing both players up and using my Headphones, and I believe I prefered the Panasonic. During intermmitent audience applause on the disc, the Panasonic rendered a warmer and much wider soundstage.

Is this crazy?
wheeler

Showing 1 response by wellfed

wellfed's avatar
wellfed
690 posts
 
I find many times that I need to adjust to the change in perspective that a new component brings, before appreciating some upgrades. Many times I have wondered "what was I thinking" after finally appreciating the superiority of the new component, which many times has been radical.

Give it some time, you may prefer the Audio Note after the adjustment. I suspect another factor that may be at work is that digital is improving, in part due to newer and better DAC chips, so I wouldn't rule out the Panasonic being the better unit either, if it has newer technology.

It won't take long to decide which approach you like the best.
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