Is it me? Will I ever be satisfied?


As we have become empty nesters, we put together or are putting together a nice dedicated two channel system consisting of B&W 804 D3, Levinson No. 333 ( this is an older amp 20+ years old), McIntosh C22 (just purchased) in which I have already upgraded the tubes, Linn Lp12 TT, Blue Sound for streaming.  I am using Transparent balanced cables and Transparent speaker cables - not sure of the exact model, but all Transparent cables are close to 20 years old as well.

My questions, while I think the system sounds good - even really good.  I don't think it sounds great.  I recently purchased the C22 to be used with the No. 333 which I replaced a McIntosh MA252, which i really like and use in another system, it didn't have enough power.  My room is our garage which we converted to a playroom years ago.  It is approximately 25' and 20' wide.  We sit about 12' from the speakers which are at one end of the room .. While I realize that this hobby or lifestyle can be never ending....  I am considering upgrading the cables next and last but not least, add a new Amp, McIntosh MC462 or MC312.

Wanted to get some feedback, thoughts, in site, advice what you experience, am I missing anything?  Thanks

goducks44

You didn’t mention what volume you enjoy but in a big room, you probably need that big power. At more moderate levels, You might try a good tube amp & see if you like the sound. It should be very different, more air, more body, richer tone if those are to your liking. Actual bigger power & really good sound in tubes does cost some decent $. It’s a real credit to Levinson & other well made stuff that they last so long & considering that, aren’t as expensive as they might seem. 

I would ask just what are you listening to to judge how good your system is?  If you were born in 1944 is your reference point mid-60’s jazz and classical, or Grateful Dead and Jefferson Airplane?  Either way, I would want more speaker than your 804s to deliver the goods in a 25’x20’ space.  No substitute for cone area.  Look into Revel F328Be or others of that scale. 

Thank you all of you for the amazing feedback and knowledge.  I am not new to this life style.  I do have multiple systems in my house.  I am fortunate that I have a dealer in Seattle where I listen to a $1m system of Dan D’Agostino  and Wilson Audio and have been working with the same guy for years. 
 

I agree that the room is a big culprit.  I have thought about moving this system, but my wife and I really enjoy the space and the view.

I am enjoying spending time getting to know this system as it is really new - to me.  I just changed out the tubes 2 weeks ago and have only spent 4 hours listening to it.