I have too much hifi - what do I use, lose?

[antcg1]

I suddenly have lots of hifi after inheriting a selection of late 1990s separates. At the same time I have rediscovered my own kit from the same era. I'm trying to work out how best to combine the various bits - perhaps adding some one of two new components to bring it up to date cost-effectively. Can anyone help?

I inherited the following:

Arcam 7r Amp

Arcam 7se CD

Mission 782 speakers

Linn Tukan speakers

My own gear:

Kenwood 3020se

Arcam 7 CD

I hooked up my Kenwood and Arcam 7 to the Missions and thought it sounded OK. However, I was surprised how poorly the sound compared to a new Denon D-M37, suggesting that this combination lacks detail, focus and drive. The speakers are easily the most expensive component so ideally I'd keep those. But should I swap the Kenwood for the inherited Arcam amp - or replace the amp with a new one - or buy a new CD player to get the clean, crisp, balanced sound I'm looking for?

I can fund some of this by flogging unwanted Arcam bits on eBay. But whatever I do buy should be the foundation for future upgrades.

I mainly listed to electronic and vocal music. Depth of bass isn't too important. Clarity, detail and rhythm is. I was toying with a Naim amp to start with - but maybe the CD is the first to be replaced?

Many thanks

 

[Anonymous]

Keep: Arcam 7r
Arcam 7se CD
Mission 782

Keep the Linn speakers if you need a spare set for kitchen, bedroom etc

Then sell the rest and use the money to upgrade the CD player when you can!

 

[antcg1]

Thanks very much for the advice. I was a bit worried that swapping the Kenwood for the Arcam might make the whole thing even more rich and bloated sounding as I'd heard the 7r was quite a relaxed, full sounding amp. But you could be right that the step up to the 7r is worth it.

 

[Anonymous]

Without wanting to sound annoying, why don't you keep the combo you like the sound of?

Keep the Linn Tukans, sell the 782s, one of the CDPs and the 7 amp and get an amp with enough power to make the Linns sing. I think the Naim Nait 5i might suit them quite well with it's speed and grip. If that sounds a bit lively for you then match them with something from the Musical Fidelity line. Lower priced options? Used Rotel RA03 for a smooth sound, used Cyrus 7 or 8 for a bit more sparkle.