This system has been upgraded in parts over a period of several years, starting in 2005, triggered really by a chance purchase of a pre-owned pair of ATC SCM20 passives. The upgrade bug took over from there :) ATC amp, bigger ATC speakers, upgraded sources, cables, tweaks, power supply etc.
The first major milestone was the completion of full solid state system with ATCs all the way. The second milestone added some tube gear to the system, that's where I am now :) This system will stay for a long while. Now to hunt down those old LPs and CDs and start to enjoy the performances :)
Running the Amarra Mini player with iTunes as a database. Connected to the AMR CD 77's DAC via Ridge Street Audio USB cable. As close as it gets to good digital playback.
Ridge Street Audio Alethias!! USB Digital Master
The Ridge Street engineer cautioned me, once you use this cable, you'll never go back to your old cables; he was right. Natural and smooth to the nth degree.
AMR CD 77
CD processor
Audience AU24e
For all sources : CD, TT and the Phono Pre.
Audio Note UK M-6
Upgraded from the M-3, the M-6 is the entry model for AN's level 4 preamps. Beautifully made, truly engaging sound too.
Harmonix HS101GP - XLR
From the preamp to the active speaker monitors.
ATC SCM-50asl
Active monitors
Audience AdeptResponse
Power conditioning for each of the ATC active monitors.
Shunyata Hydra 8 and cables
I use Shunyata for all power supply needs (well mostly)
Shunyata Dark Field Cable Elevator
Got a bunch of these to raise all the power chords that normally lie on the floor. Could not believe the air this added to the overall sound.
Harmonix RF 999
Spike base. These drain away vibrations to the floor leaving the rack and speakers to do their job. It;ve tried many before, this one truly made a difference. Blacker backgrounds all round.
Nice move to the powered SCM50. Question though about the pre amp, you have selected to use the ATC pre, why was that? I was unaware ATC manufactures matching pre amps for their powered speakers.