Upgrade Path - Where to end?

VR3
VR3 Posts: 28,644
edited July 2007 in 2 Channel Audio
Well, I started really upgrading my system around the end of 2006. Really started to seek out quality pieces for my system.

Right now my system has the following...

Mains - Tyler Acoustics Taylo 7u
Amp - Odyssey Audio Stratos Extreme Mono Blocks (Very Shortly)
Preamp - Odyssey Audio Candela
CD Player - Shanling CDT100A
Subwoofer - VMPS Larger Subwoofer
12" Megawoofer, about to upgrade 15" to the VSS 15" Woofer, 3" VC (over 2") PR as well
Subwoofer Amp - Crown XTI1000
Subwoofer Crossover - Paradigm X30

Cables -

CDP to Preamp - Signal Cable Analog II
Preamp to Amp - Radioshack 6' (I know I know)
Amp to Speakers - Signal Cable Ultra Bi-Wire

I plan to add a Signal Cable Analog II (5' length) to go to the CDP, then take my 3' run to use on the amps...

The cables used on the subwoofer are a mix of monster, signal, and something else. I am eventually going to upgrade the 10' IC running to the crossover to a 5' Analog II as well. Not in the immediate plans though...

So basically the question is...

Where should I stop

For certain -
Going to add two more pairs of 5' Analog II interconnects...
Two more acoustic panels for the back corners

Up in the air -
Another VMPS subwoofer for stereo subbage... I really want to do this - but at the same time dont want to drop nearly 1000 bones after its all said and done. But it would be the ultimate subwoofer setup for me. Would be able to handle 2,800 watts continuous all day...

What would yall do? :)
- Not Tom ::::::: Any system can play Diana Krall. Only the best can play Limp Bizkit.
Post edited by VR3 on
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Comments

  • Early B.
    Early B. Posts: 7,900
    edited June 2007
    I'd wait on the sub and upgrade the speakers to a higher Taylo line. But first, your cables are the weakest link (pun intended). IMO, you haven't really heard what your system can do until you address this issue.

    BTW - since you changed outputs on the CDP recently, have you tried omitting the pre?
    HT/2-channel Rig: Sony 50” LCD TV; Toshiba HD-A2 DVD player; Emotiva LMC-1 pre/pro; Rogue Audio M-120 monoblocks (modded); Placette RVC; Emotiva LPA-1 amp; Bada HD-22 tube CDP (modded); VMPS Tower II SE (fronts); DIY Clearwave Dynamic 4CC (center); Wharfedale Opus Tri-Surrounds (rear); and VMPS 215 sub

    "God grooves with tubes."
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  • Face
    Face Posts: 14,340
    edited June 2007
    Vr3MxStyler2k3 wrote: »
    So basically the question is...

    Where should I stop
    It's time to stop when you either run out of money or take a dirt nap.
    "He who fights with monsters should look to it that he himself does not become a monster. And when you gaze long into an abyss the abyss also gazes into you." Friedrich Nietzsche
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  • VR3
    VR3 Posts: 28,644
    edited June 2007
    The Shanling sucks balls on its own... IMO of course - lots of noise, not alot of clarity overall. Just didnt like it.

    That is a huge consideration - upgrading to the Super Towers... all day...

    Thats a darn good idea. I may have to entertain that one too.

    I refuse to buy into cable upgrading THAT much - someone will have to school me with the good stuff ;)
    - Not Tom ::::::: Any system can play Diana Krall. Only the best can play Limp Bizkit.
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  • VR3
    VR3 Posts: 28,644
    edited June 2007
    I just shot the email off to Ty about upgrading to the Super Towers in dark Walnut...

    Shall see!

    super_rm_lg1.jpg
    - Not Tom ::::::: Any system can play Diana Krall. Only the best can play Limp Bizkit.
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  • Yashu
    Yashu Posts: 772
    edited June 2007
    I have some 'shack gold's, some Vampire, and some WireWorld ICs.

    I can tell you that, yes cables make a difference, I would say it is similar to what someone might get through "tube rolling"... they slightly flavour the sound, or lack thereof.

    It depends on what kind of sound you are looking for. There are hyper revealing cables and there are ones that have a more laid back sound. I use the RS cables on my tuner, and as digital coax, but they sound kindof grungy compared to the others I have. You should really consider Vampire Wire... if you are into resolution, they are a hard bargain to beat.

    The wireworlds are the only "directional" cables I have, and I prefer their sound. I want to say they sound "sweeter".

    You don't have to spend a ton of money to hear a difference with cables. Your pre-power connection is an important connection. I don't think the RS gold's sound BAD, because they don't, I just think a system like yours would benefit from a little cable rolling. Plus, it's a great way to scratch that "itch" without too much trouble.
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  • F1nut
    F1nut Posts: 50,554
    edited June 2007
    Dump the sub, change the cables and get a tube pre amp.
    Political Correctness'.........defined

    "A doctrine fostered by a delusional, illogical minority and rabidly promoted by an unscrupulous mainstream media, which holds forth the proposition that it is entirely possible to pick up a t-u-r-d by the clean end."

    President of Club Polk

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  • VR3
    VR3 Posts: 28,644
    edited June 2007
    I have a tube preamp Jesse, and a tube CDP.

    I have after market power cables as well...

    :)
    - Not Tom ::::::: Any system can play Diana Krall. Only the best can play Limp Bizkit.
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  • danger boy
    danger boy Posts: 15,722
    edited June 2007
    get an external DAC and better cables. you got all the right parts.. now just fine tune them.
    PolkFest 2012, who's going>?
    Vancouver, Canada Sept 30th, 2012 - Madonna concert :cheesygrin:
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  • VR3
    VR3 Posts: 28,644
    edited June 2007
    Why do I need an external dac?

    Not questioning your rec - just curious why you say this?
    - Not Tom ::::::: Any system can play Diana Krall. Only the best can play Limp Bizkit.
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  • danger boy
    danger boy Posts: 15,722
    edited June 2007
    Vr3MxStyler2k3 wrote: »
    The Shanling sucks balls on its own... IMO of course - lots of noise, not alot of clarity overall. Just didnt like it.


    because of this, i think you need a DAC
    PolkFest 2012, who's going>?
    Vancouver, Canada Sept 30th, 2012 - Madonna concert :cheesygrin:
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  • VR3
    VR3 Posts: 28,644
    edited June 2007
    Hmmm...

    But all of these problems go away when its ran with a preamp - but still using its DACs?

    Very good point/observation though...
    - Not Tom ::::::: Any system can play Diana Krall. Only the best can play Limp Bizkit.
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  • VR3
    VR3 Posts: 28,644
    edited June 2007
    Haha

    I think I am going to go with my upgrades minus the sub...

    And pick up a pair of Strata Mini used.... :) That would be alot more fun than any other route... hmmm
    - Not Tom ::::::: Any system can play Diana Krall. Only the best can play Limp Bizkit.
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  • wingnut4772
    wingnut4772 Posts: 7,519
    edited June 2007
    Early B. wrote: »
    I'd wait on the sub and upgrade the speakers to a higher Taylo line. But first, your cables are the weakest link (pun intended). IMO, you haven't really heard what your system can do until you address this issue.

    I agree 100%. That was the first thing that stood out as I looked at your system list..the cables that is.
    Sharp Elite 70
    Anthem D2V 3D
    Parasound 5250
    Parasound HCA 1000 A
    Parasound HCA 1000
    Oppo BDP 95
    Von Schweikert VR4 Jr R/L Fronts
    Von Schweikert LCR 4 Center
    Totem Mask Surrounds X4
    Hsu ULS-15 Quad Drive Subwoofers
    Sony PS3
    Squeezebox Touch

    Polk Atrium 7s on the patio just to keep my foot in the door.
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  • tonyb
    tonyb Posts: 32,963
    edited June 2007
    I'll agree you need to do something about those rat shack cables.But all in all Sid,when you like what you hear from your system,stop and enjoy the music bro.Spend your money on chicks....you do like chicks,don't ya??
    HT SYSTEM-
    Sony 850c 4k
    Pioneer elite vhx 21
    Sony 4k BRP
    SVS SB-2000
    Polk Sig. 20's
    Polk FX500 surrounds

    Cables-
    Acoustic zen Satori speaker cables
    Acoustic zen Matrix 2 IC's
    Wireworld eclipse 7 ic's
    Audio metallurgy ga-o digital cable

    Kitchen

    Sonos zp90
    Grant Fidelity tube dac
    B&k 1420
    lsi 9's
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  • VR3
    VR3 Posts: 28,644
    edited June 2007
    Well see thats partly why I am questioning my upgrades - I'm enjoying the system so much, there really isnt anything else to upgrade...

    I probally spend 30% of my earnings on Audio - and when your only bills are gas, insurance and truck maintence - you can pretty much do anything you want. ;)
    - Not Tom ::::::: Any system can play Diana Krall. Only the best can play Limp Bizkit.
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  • tonyb
    tonyb Posts: 32,963
    edited June 2007
    Travel and girls my friend,at your age,thats what I'd do.:D
    HT SYSTEM-
    Sony 850c 4k
    Pioneer elite vhx 21
    Sony 4k BRP
    SVS SB-2000
    Polk Sig. 20's
    Polk FX500 surrounds

    Cables-
    Acoustic zen Satori speaker cables
    Acoustic zen Matrix 2 IC's
    Wireworld eclipse 7 ic's
    Audio metallurgy ga-o digital cable

    Kitchen

    Sonos zp90
    Grant Fidelity tube dac
    B&k 1420
    lsi 9's
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  • VR3
    VR3 Posts: 28,644
    edited June 2007
    Yep... July 31st - Aug 4...

    We are going to Busch Gardens/Manhatten/Niagra Falls/Rock N Roll Hall of Fame/NFL Hall Of Fame

    Rock out on the East Coast...

    Beach next week...

    Girls are cool - but I wont waste a bunch of money on them, 90% of them are crazy.. I'll wait for the sane ones...
    - Not Tom ::::::: Any system can play Diana Krall. Only the best can play Limp Bizkit.
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  • W WALDECKER
    W WALDECKER Posts: 900
    edited June 2007
    The cables are the weak link for sure audition as many cables as possible before you buy any ;)
    Rogue Audio stereo 100 tube amplifier - Lector Zoe preamplifier with 6H30 pi's
    .Audience AU24SE speaker and ic cables- Chord Qutest DAC - Black Cat Silverstar II 75ohm digital cable-Tyler Acoustics Linbrook Signature system with large bass cabinets to accommodate 10" Seas magnesium woofers.2xhmpsuownoj.jpg
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  • VR3
    VR3 Posts: 28,644
    edited June 2007
    The only BIG difference I heard in aftermarket cables other than over stock cables - is silver vs copper.

    I can rightfully say that silver cables are brighter than copper cables. 100% positive.

    However, I dont want a brighter system... lol

    For now with my temporary runs (wont live here forever) --- the cables I have will suffice I think
    - Not Tom ::::::: Any system can play Diana Krall. Only the best can play Limp Bizkit.
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  • tonyb
    tonyb Posts: 32,963
    edited June 2007
    Sid,the sane ones are the ones that will cost you bucko bucks.:)
    HT SYSTEM-
    Sony 850c 4k
    Pioneer elite vhx 21
    Sony 4k BRP
    SVS SB-2000
    Polk Sig. 20's
    Polk FX500 surrounds

    Cables-
    Acoustic zen Satori speaker cables
    Acoustic zen Matrix 2 IC's
    Wireworld eclipse 7 ic's
    Audio metallurgy ga-o digital cable

    Kitchen

    Sonos zp90
    Grant Fidelity tube dac
    B&k 1420
    lsi 9's
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  • VR3
    VR3 Posts: 28,644
    edited June 2007
    WWW

    Have you compared the Analog II to the Groneberg stuff?

    I wouldnt mind giving that stuff a whirl...

    Klaus roxor my soxor.

    See the key to me to buy your product is for me to like you and want to support you. Tyler Acoustics - Odyssey Audio - Signal Cable...

    I'll be buyers to the end...

    I cant wait to get into HT... Have FOUR stratos amps is going to be awesome... thats 28" of ampage!

    Ahhhhhh!
    - Not Tom ::::::: Any system can play Diana Krall. Only the best can play Limp Bizkit.
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  • W WALDECKER
    W WALDECKER Posts: 900
    edited June 2007
    Vr3MxStyler2k3 wrote: »
    The only BIG difference I heard in aftermarket cables other than over stock cables - is silver vs copper.

    I can rightfully say that silver cables are brighter than copper cables. 100% positive.

    However, I dont want a brighter system... lol

    For now with my temporary runs (wont live here forever) --- the cables I have will suffice I think
    Cable Geometry and connectors matter as much as the actual wire metalurgy does.
    Rogue Audio stereo 100 tube amplifier - Lector Zoe preamplifier with 6H30 pi's
    .Audience AU24SE speaker and ic cables- Chord Qutest DAC - Black Cat Silverstar II 75ohm digital cable-Tyler Acoustics Linbrook Signature system with large bass cabinets to accommodate 10" Seas magnesium woofers.2xhmpsuownoj.jpg
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  • JimBRICK
    JimBRICK Posts: 1,543
    edited June 2007
    just like to add.........I called dibs on your tylers when you upgrade them :)
    2 CHANNEL
    Speaker - Klipsch Heresy II
    Under construction
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  • Ricardo
    Ricardo Posts: 10,636
    edited June 2007
    Upgrade your Tylers....but to the Linbrook Signature System; You can sell your sub then.
    _________________________________________________
    ***\\\\\........................... My Audio Journey ............................./////***

    2008 & 2010 Football Pool WINNER
    SOPA
    Thank God for different opinions. Imagine the world if we all wanted the same woman
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  • george daniel
    george daniel Posts: 12,096
    edited June 2007
    Linbrook,,, scanspeak revelator, or seas?
    JC approves....he told me so. (F-1 nut)
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  • VR3
    VR3 Posts: 28,644
    edited June 2007
    Well the only difference between the Linbrook and Taylo is the tweeter...

    They use the same midbass as far as I know. I dont need a sub now... lol -- but it augments enough to get the lowest octave...

    The revelator is brighter -- the Seas is more relaxed...

    If I upgrade the Tylers to big Tylers - I will use the 1 year trade up program...

    However, I dont think that is going to happen...

    But yeah - I had turned off my sub amp because of a storm... didnt realize the sub off was until 2 days later. Funny how that works. The 7u is beastly.
    - Not Tom ::::::: Any system can play Diana Krall. Only the best can play Limp Bizkit.
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  • Ricardo
    Ricardo Posts: 10,636
    edited June 2007
    I have not heard the scanspeak, but the seas millenium gives me all the detail I need; still a bit forward but not too bright. My ears are older than yours, so maybe you like the revelator beter. You can have a custome made linbrook with the scanpeaks.

    The signature system goes down to lower 20's with authority, very clean bass. I wouldn't even think of adding a sub to these.
    _________________________________________________
    ***\\\\\........................... My Audio Journey ............................./////***

    2008 & 2010 Football Pool WINNER
    SOPA
    Thank God for different opinions. Imagine the world if we all wanted the same woman
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  • VR3
    VR3 Posts: 28,644
    edited June 2007
    Ah yeah - you got the big dual 8's on the bottom eh?

    If I get the bigger Tylers, the Super Towers have my name all over them. I love midbasses. Never been a fan of woofer towers -- just a personal preference. 8 midbasses are where its at for me. Haha...

    I'd still use a sub - even with your speakers. even if its only turned up 1/64 of the way. Itd still be on. Haha - It makes me feel good inside, haha...

    Both tweeters are fantastic, the Milenium is said to be more detailed overall --- but the Revelator is a line more relaxed.

    But FWIW, the Milenium and Rev only have a 10 dollar difference and the rev actually cost more. So they are the same quality, just different designs/sounds overall...

    Both use fantastic midbasses that are insanely tight with authorative bass..
    - Not Tom ::::::: Any system can play Diana Krall. Only the best can play Limp Bizkit.
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  • steveinaz
    steveinaz Posts: 19,538
    edited June 2007
    Dump the sub, upgrade cables.
    Source: Bluesound Node 2i - Preamp/DAC: Benchmark DAC2 DX - Amp: Parasound Halo A21 - Speakers: MartinLogan Motion 60XTi - Shop Rig: Yamaha A-S501 Integrated - Shop Spkrs: Elac Debut 2.0 B5.2
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  • Early B.
    Early B. Posts: 7,900
    edited June 2007
    Vr3MxStyler2k3 wrote: »
    The only BIG difference I heard in aftermarket cables other than over stock cables - is silver vs copper.

    I can rightfully say that silver cables are brighter than copper cables. 100% positive.

    However, I dont want a brighter system... lol

    For now with my temporary runs (wont live here forever) --- the cables I have will suffice I think

    Not true about the silver vs. copper comment.

    Dammit, Sid, stop being so obstinate. Before you do anything else, upgrade the 'effin' cables. You have graduated to high end gear, so you need high end cables.

    Get 2 pair of DH Labs Matrix and some high end Audioquest speaker cables. You should budget about $800.
    HT/2-channel Rig: Sony 50” LCD TV; Toshiba HD-A2 DVD player; Emotiva LMC-1 pre/pro; Rogue Audio M-120 monoblocks (modded); Placette RVC; Emotiva LPA-1 amp; Bada HD-22 tube CDP (modded); VMPS Tower II SE (fronts); DIY Clearwave Dynamic 4CC (center); Wharfedale Opus Tri-Surrounds (rear); and VMPS 215 sub

    "God grooves with tubes."
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