IMAGING
The best equipment in the world without great imaging while working, is a fundamental compromise.
Over the years, I have had some very nice equipment in here, but never had excellent imaging until I decided: make Imaging the starting factor, re-build for/around that.
Got rid of some bookshelves and files (weeded and downstairs). I re-worked everything so that I and my Monitor are dead center of the speakers, thus terrific imaging.
In my case, real bookcase speakers horizontal IN the bookcase, seated ear level. No ports due to ’in the BC’.
Next equipment:
I chopped the height of 2 remaining bc, so I was able to use my existing Vertical TT and existing Vertical Tape Deck, standing operational height for the 1st time, on top of the BC.
I wanted to stay with tubes, so I found a small powered Integrated Luxman 10wpc (minimizes heat, plenty volume in this small room). Has both MM and MC Phono.
Lastly, much of the music here is Streaming: YouTube Music Videos, Pandora Audio, .....
Advice here got a big improvement using PC’s USB out to DAC to Luxman.
Speakers: Started with new Wharfedale’s, and a self-powered sub to add just enough so that the Wharfedale’s did not sound small. Not aware of the sub unless you turn it off. Nice, and good looking.
Changed speakers to a pair of Restored AR-2ax (no sub needed). They are 3 way with Level Controls for mid and tweet. Balancing to the room while positioned is a big asset. AR-2ax ’true bc’ design fit right in just like the Wharfedale’s, sub removed.
Early Wharfedale Setup shown here
https://www.audiogon.com/systems/9511
Revised AR-2ax speakers shown here
https://www.audiogon.com/systems/10092
I couldn’t be happier.
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