Help me decide what to upgrade 1st

[admin_exported]

System:

Samsung 40" lcd

PS3

Yamaha Dsp-avx757se

Wharfedale HCP 9.0 5.1 Speaker Package with Daimond 9.1s for front speakers.

I need help on deciding what to upgrade 1st my amp or my speakers. I'm thinking of buying the B&W 685 theater package but i'm not sure if my current av amp will do them justice, or should I upgrade my av amp 1st to the yamaha dsp-ax863se or sony da2400es? Will these av amps improve my current speaker package and produce a beter sound stage?

Can anyone help?

 

[ALTANPSX]

IMO change your speakers. 685's are very revealing speakers. Changing your amp will not make an effect on your system.

 

[lobby]

I disagree a change of amp would get more out of your Wharfedales, and most off the new amps are able to offer HD Audio so you will benefit from playing blu-rays. But i would demo the two together first to make sure they sound right for you. One option might be to sell yours first then look for a good bundle deal may save a few quid.

 

[Anonymous]

Yes, change your amp. That is the weakest link in your system, in my opinion.

 

[Anonymous]

Your speaker package is fine. Your amp needs an upgrade and both choices mentioned are excellent and have enough grunt to drive the B&W 685 Theatre, if you decide to upgrade your speakers at a later stage. Also, as mentioned, you will benefit from HD sound.

 

[Anonymous]

Thanks guys for all the advise,

I think i'll upgrade my amp 1st. My current amp is not bad, it goes loud but there's no emotion and the sound is bland...if you know what i mean, i've read so many good reviews about the daimonds 9.1s but i'm not getting it from mine and i think my amp is the weak point. Do any of you know about the sony strda3400es and is it any good?

 

[Anonymous]

like the others just said, definitly ur amp. first!

 

[Anonymous]

I haven't heard the wharfdale but if you are still planning to go for the B&W speaker package later you might consider upgrading to a more capable Yamaha. The Yamaha B&W combo works very well.

Also, if you want to replace both the amp and speakers I suggest you audition them together instead of with your existing speakers/amp. Then you'll know if it's the sound you want to work towards.

 

[pwiles1968]

If musicality is something that is important to you you may want to try auditioning a Marantz AV amp not sure about your budget but the SR6003 can be had for around £650.