So, this is my humble system. I am a pretty cash-strapped student and have, over the years, assembled this setup. I am going for warmth, realism, and soundstage as my three main qualities in the system. I definitely have achieved that, with the help of my new cartridge purchase, and my new speaker purchase. I am a fan of vinyl, as that is 95% of my listening material, so the system stresses performance on vinyl records.
I put this under the 'Ever Evolving' category because this system will continue to grow and get better as I become able to afford better equipment. Next on the update docket is the turntable, and then possibly the amplifier. Let me know what you guys think! :)
A beautiful, wood-bodied cartridge that tracks surprisingly well and gives off the most romantic sound I've ever heard from any cartridge in the price range.
Ohm Micro Walsh Tall
I love these speakers to death. Beautiful finish, real wood cabinet, fascinating driver design, and the most realistic and spacious sound stage to date. Imaging is brilliant and mids are impeccable.
Pioneer SX-450
A vintage Pioneer amplifier that gives magnificently beautiful sound. Even better yet, it was a hand-me-down! I swear, I will not upgrade to a better amp until I hear one that is both more powerful AND sounds better. I practically built my entire system around this one amp.
Goldring GR1
An entry-level turntable. Essentially, it is a re-make of the Rega P2. It contains a modified Rega RB250 tonearm. Very decent for the cash I paid.
DiMarzio M-Path
1-meter interconnects, completely solderless. It mainly opens up higher possibilities in resolution and soundstage traits.
I'm pretty new to this stuff, but I feel like Grado makes the vinyl lover's carts. I've heard Soundsmith are great too. I had a few Ortofons and they were great but the Grado's I've heard bring much more of the warmth and smoothness I'm after. Thanks!
Well, let's just say that I ran into a bit of cash over the past few weeks and would like to upgrade my system! What upgrade do you guys think I could make that would be most substantial to the system's overall sound, and at what price point would this upgrade be worth it?
I was thinking about a new turntable, but I don't know if I have the proper funds to make the climb necessary for it to be truly worthwhile. Hmmm... phono stage? Amplifier? (It is a vintage receiver, after all!)
I'm lost here. Give me your advice, audio gurus! :) -Andrew
I am not sure what I want to do for amps yet, but I am thinking about getting either a Clearaudio turntable, or the VPI HW-19 or VPI Scout. The HW-19 Jr is very appealing because it is being discontinued, so the cost would be fairly cheap, and for a high-quality turntable. I'll have to look around, though.
As far as amps go, I know I want to have something with tubes. Maybe that 45W Onix one?
Aman, it looks like a very enjoyable system. I had and used a fairly similar system for several years and enjoyed it alot. It produced enjoyable music, which is what it is all about. What turntable and amp are you thinking about?
