Gone from my 2 channel system is my Cary SLP-05, which has been replaced by an Ayre KX-5 twenty. Maybe it's the synergy with my Ayre phono pre, but after an extensive A/B I felt the Ayre made a significant difference.
Also, upgraded my VPI's tonearm and cartridge. Added the fatboy (unipivot) and an Airtight PC7.
New pics to be posted soon..
8/22/17
This system has gone through many changes through the years. Gone from the above are the following:
Two Channel-
Oracle Paris TT
McIntosh MC202
Sonic Frontiers Phono Preamp
Benchmark DAC
Cary 306 SACD
Canton Reference 9 Speakers
Home Theater-
Rotel RSP 1066 prepro
Anthem AVM30
Denon DVD2900
Oppo BDP 83
Sherbourn 1500/A 5 ch amp
BMW CDM 9NT/1NT/CNT
Anthony Gallo Strada
BMW CDM NT sub
For awhile I was using the Focus Audio speakers as double duty for both stereo and HT, but now I only use them for all things surround. The Thiels are strictly for 2 channel. The REL works with both systems (LFE and Speakon cables are swapped depending on which medium).
Thanks again for the comments. Been listening to the Thiels now for about 4 months, and I have to say, they sound better each day I'm in front of them. That doesn't mean, however, that there isn't still room for improvement. Next on my list is a new cartridge and possible upgraded tonearm. At some point I'd also consider upgrading my DAC, although for now I listen to far too much vinyl to really justify it..
Jeff - I actually swapped out the Cantons for my Focus Audio's about 6 years ago (my FA's are now regulated to surround duties). The Canton's were a brief upgrade from my B&Ws. I had a pair of Fonum 150s when I was in high school and I loved them, so I bought the R9s sight unseen. Big mistake. I'm sure there are many people who love them, but regrettably I was very disappointed. I just felt they didn't throw a very big soundstage and the imaging never seemed to be impress me. My pair of Focus Audio FP80se speakers were a dramatic improvement. And the Thiels are simply in a different league, at least to my ears.
Thanks! I admit i was a little hesitant about buying the Thiel's given my A50 is rated at 'only' 50wpc and the 3.7s are notorious for being power hungry. But the Accuphase is more than enough, pumping out 100w at 4 ohms and further doubling down to 200w at 2 ohms. Happy to say that the whole system just sings. I can't see myself upgrading from the Thiels anytime soon..
