Stereo system Too Bright


I have a stereo that consists of a Marantz CD-63SE, an Adcom SLC-505 passive pre, an Adcom GFA-535II power amp, Axiom M40ti floorstanding speakers, Phoenix Gold $20 interconnects, and standard Monster speaker cable.

Lately I have really noticed that it sounds too bright. With some recordings, it seems like there are two tracks, one for the hi-hat and snare, and one for the rest of the music. cymbals always seem to come out over the top of the mix, to the point where it is bordering on unlistenable. At the very least it's extremely annoying.

I'm wondering how I can get rid of this problem. My preamp doesn't have a tone control, so I'm thinking that I'll probably have to go for other interconnects or maybe alter the speaker cabinets somehow (by stuffing them or something). I don't know how you would go about doing this, but it seems like about all I can do - there are only so many components that could be at fault. Does anyone know what my problem is? Hopefully these components aren't just totally mismatched...

I hope you guys can shed some light on this issue.

Thanks,
Chris
metonymy3

Showing 1 response by the_kid

Chris,

I have had your problem. Not to sound mean, but I would sell your system and start from scratch. In my younger years when I ran a high end store, all the Manufacturers woud run contests. I acually won an Adcom stack, (GFA-535, GFP-565,and a GCD-575) I was using a pair of Kefs back then and could never get the system to sound right. It was the earlier Adcom stuff's sonic signature which just make my ears bleed on any less than perfect recording.

I actually sold the pre-amp first then picked up a CJ PV-10A.. Wow! Things sounded a heck of a lot better. I then picked up a Sonographe (Lower end CJ amp) and things fell into place. What I would recommend you do is sell your passive controller, your amp, and your cd player and purchase a nice integrated amp and modern day CD player such as the Creek or even NAD depending on your budget. You can get some real deals on mint used gear here on AG.

Just my advice based on my experience, not trying to add insult to injury.

Good Luck!

Chris