I have always been wanted to build a nice system. Finally, last month I bit the bullet and I bought the Sony S9000es, B&W N805, and Mcintosh MC2155 in one shot. The Parasound Preamp was something I bought on Ebay as a starting point. I read a few reviews and thought it was great value. My system sounds awesome. I haven't had much time to do any tweaking because of business. To compliment my system I have a Lovan Rack, Cardas Cuboids, and various isolation cones. My first upgrades will be in the area of Power Cords. I hope that you guys can give me some insight into this realm of Hifi audio. I don't really wanna spend a small fortune on PC's. I have looked at a couple of DIY designs like VHaudio. I have also looked at the entry level Nordost offerings. My budget is around $150-$200usd. Also if any of you have any opinions on my overall system please feel free. After the PC's I would like to upgrade my Preamp. I have two in mind: The Rogue Audio Metis Tube Preamp ($995 Retail) and the Prima Luna Prologue Three Tube Preamp ($1395 Retail). The reason I want to try a tube Preamp is to improve the highs. Is this the right idea? I have to base my decision on your help as no local dealers carry either. The most amazing this I have realized since my big upgrades is, redbooks cds I originally thought were great recordings really suck. =) I guess this is what audiophiles mean by "more revealing". Better systems do reveal bad recordings.
Got a good deal on this brand new off Ebay. Sounds pretty good for now.
Sony DVP-S9000es
I finally decided on this. In my opinion the best value in 2-channel Redbood/Sacd.
McIntosh MC-2155
I was running a Parasound HCA-1000A before this. Picked this up from my friend at a good price so we'll see.
B&W Nautilus 805
Finally got what I wanted!!!
Harmonic Technology Precision Link
Pretty good Value for what you are getting. I love the Furutech plugs.
MIT Terminator 4
Got a good deal on these too!!!
Onkyo CP-1057f
Dunno where it came from but it's gonna have to do for now. New cartridge coming tomorrow!!!
DIY Audio Asylum Audio Asylum
I got the materials from Take Five Audio. Took me about 2hrs to make both of them. Consists of: Belden 19364 Cable Pass and Seymour 5266XHG Marinco 320i Techflex
About the power cords, consider trying Audio Horizons. They have a free trial program which you may find attractive. Also, at the risk of tempting you to test your budget, Audio Horizons makes an excellent preamp which has an upgrade path. Again, there is a free trial program. I own the preamp. In various posts, other A'goners have remarked on the outstanding performance of the Audio Horizons preamp.
