Current setup: Arcam Alpha 9 integrated amp and 8se cd player biwired to some new B&W 685's with QED xt sliver anniv. cables. Problem is the sound is rather boring and lifeless, especially as I listen to mostly rock.
I may have the opportunity to trade in the Arcams for the Marantz PM6002 and CD6002 player at a chain store that stocks both brands. The question is, since the Marantz are still both 'entry level' will this improve the sound in the way I'm hoping for? Other brands are available in other stores (no trade in for my current equip though) including Rega, Rotel and NAD. Anything else is over budget. Since I'm unable to test all of these togethor in the same place, opinions might be helpful. Is the Rega Apollo worth the extra, or is it just a more refined sound than the Marantz? Is it better to stick with what I have and upgrade the interconnects and power cords?
I may have the opportunity to trade in the Arcams for the Marantz PM6002 and CD6002 player at a chain store that stocks both brands. The question is, since the Marantz are still both 'entry level' will this improve the sound in the way I'm hoping for? Other brands are available in other stores (no trade in for my current equip though) including Rega, Rotel and NAD. Anything else is over budget. Since I'm unable to test all of these togethor in the same place, opinions might be helpful. Is the Rega Apollo worth the extra, or is it just a more refined sound than the Marantz? Is it better to stick with what I have and upgrade the interconnects and power cords?