Question It might be time to upgrade ..but what first?

[lakelandstu70]

OK folks so here's the dilemma - I'm thinking it is time to upgrade the hifi element of my system, but what first... and I have real world constraints so in no particular order:

I have two independent set ups - one in the lounge that has to do AVR (so TV, surround sound, home cinema) etc and the main HIFI... so one system, the second is 'office' based (work from home) which I'm comfortable with as it stands unless someone makes a good case to upgrade it.

Main system (AVR based):
Amp - Denon AVR X2700H
Turntable - Rega P1 with upgraded stylus and table
CD Player - Marantz CD 6007
Google Chromecast Audio for streaming (via Qobuz)
Speakers - Wharfedale Dx-2 speaker package including subwoofer (which is notoriously unreliable, but just been repaired for £40)

Secondary system:
Macbook pro
Mojo 2
Headphones (currently Grado SR325x

More than happy with the secondary system. Also have a Denon 350 (astonishing speaker) in the kitchen, which brings in another important constraint ... if I replace the amp (AVR) it needs to have HEOS. i can stream (via wifi) everything from the AVR setup to the kitchen speaker without loss.

From a music point of view (cos you'll ask) I listen to all types from classical, to hip hop to metal via folk ... but... predominantly bands like Jesus and Mary Chain, Frank Carter, Faith No More, but the system needs to perform for LP's like Mediterranean Sundance, joan Armatrading, Massive Attack, Ride and Verdi's Requiem etc . My CD collection is huge but don't play them often due to Qobuz Hi Res streaming. So that's the main source other than vinyl.

I realise I will get as many opinions as answers... and that's what I want... And someone will ask budget... so... most separates were £200-£500 each, although the Rega was second hand £100 and the upgrade stylus was £40 (also got a weight, new belt etc) and not averse to buying a second hand part, stops land fill.

Reason for upgrade? I want to lift this good system to an excellent system over the next few years. Personally I;m thinking the speaker package first (not there's anything wrong with the DX-2) so it needs to be 5.1 and sub woofer if that's what you recommend but brilliant for audio and cinema... big ask...it's always a compromise. or should I consider pre-amps... new turntable? (the Denon x2700h has a phono stage).

I look forward to the arguments discussions in chat.

 

[Messiah]

What more do you want from the system? What do you think is lacking?

I've not heard the Wharfdale package but given the costs of the individual components, the speakers do seem to be at a lower level.

You are right, there are many options available to you.

If you can see my signature you will see that we have very similar systems and personally I use Monitor Audio Radius with my Denon. Fabulous speakers.

 

[lakelandstu70]

What more do you want from the system? What do you think is lacking?

I've not heard the Wharfdale package but given the costs of the individual components, the speakers do seem to be at a lower level.

You are right, there are many options available to you.

If you can see my signature you will see that we have very similar systems and personally I use Monitor Audio Radius with my Denon. Fabulous speakers.

Thats a really good question.... hmm... having thought about it... more clarity.... my secondary set up (office, mojo and headphones). so... I'm looking for 'more presence'... as I'm typing this. I've got the Pixies Trompe le Monde playing on vinyl. bought it on CD years ago... the vinyl is more dynamic and it's not even 180gm. but it has more presence than the cd.... 'presence' .. how do you describe that...

so I think presence is lacking whatever that means lol

 

[Leon74]

Like Messiah I would suggest to upgrade the speakers.
However, I am not sure if that will necessarily give you more "presence". That's clearly tied to the vinyl for you and I doubt different speakers will make a difference.

You could also decide to add another amp and speakers (new, or used) and separate the turntable from the CD player.
My concern here is: Vinyl and CD are different and you hear this difference: Then I think it is logical to find have a set of speakers that are best for vinyl, and another set of speakers that is best for CD.

Maybe it seems far-fetched, but I even think one could/should factor in which musical decade(s) you listen to most.
I am sure there are amps/speakers more suitable to the sound of e.g. the sixties , and others more suitable to contemporary music.

I wonder whether adding an equalizer might be useful.