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Upgrades to Analog System

Hoping to get some thoughts/advice on upgrade to current analog system. Current setup is

Avid Reference turntable
Sme v tonearm
Dynavector xv1s cartridge
Aesthetix Rhea phono stage (basic not signature)
Marantz pm11s2 integrated amp
Focal 1007be speakers
Rel b3 sub
Hydra 8v2 (everything except sub)
Hydra v2 (sub)

I've been generally happy with the system but there is always room for changes. When I purchased the Rhea 2yrs I had planned to do the signature upgrade. Now I'm debating on whether to spend $3 grand on signature upgrade on purchase new phono stage in the 5-7k range (would sell the rhea). The Avid Pulsare II phono stage is on my list.

Any thoughts on rhea upgrade vs another phono stage would be much appreciated. I'd also like to hear any advice on where $5-7k could be spent making other changes to the system if phono stage change isn't going to make a much of a difference.

Thanks in advance.
marlonrsmith
marakanetz's avatar
marakanetz
5,473 posts
 
Consider Lyra Titan in place of your Dynavector first.
peterayer
1,382 posts
 
Though my system is different from yours, I found myself asking the same question about two years ago. I did two things which dramatically increased my enjoyment of listening to music. First I hired Jim Smith to voice my system to my room. Then I bought proper isolation for my turntable, a Vibraplane.

These two changes cost less than $5K total and improved my listening enjoyment more than any equipment change I have made. They also formed a foundation upon which subsequent changes were more easily heard.
stevecham
3,340 posts
 
I have a Rhea V1 too and I recently purchased a Manley Chinook for an all tube second system. This is a superior phono stage and I am tempted to sell my Rhea and get a second Chinook for my solid state system. It is that good so you might save some $$ and get one of these. At least see if you can arrange an audition. There is NO tube rush and the dynamic range is outstanding and quick.
dover
2,178 posts
 
In my view the weakest point of your system is the Marantz integrated amplifier. Why not ditch the Aesthetix/Marantz and look at a full function tube preamp that has a phono and a new power amp to match.
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