Most I can afford...comments always welcome

IMG_0206

IMG_0221

Description

Gentleman and ladies... This is the best I have been able to assemble over the past 24 years or so. And while I don't claim it to be even near the end all, be all, I would certainly appreciate any comments or suggestions.

I listen to classic rock and classic pop as well as jazz and jazz fusion. I love Steely Dan, the Pat Metheny Group, China Crisis, Doobie Brothers, Boz Scaggs, Miles Davis, the Band, etc.

Thanks for your review and suggestions.

Components Toggle details

- Audio Aero Prestige SACD player and preamp
I've used as my preamp because of the tube output, but wonder what a stand alone preamp would do for my setup and sound.
- Parasound JC1 Monoblocks
Impressive and always ready to rock or roll. I have been using these for a few years after problems with large tube monoblocks.
- Wadia i170 Transport
Used as a digital music server via my 160g iPod.
- Avid Volvere SP
New version of the Volvere with
- SME 309
Bought it because it was always seen with this table.
- Lyra Delos
A real bargin, IMHO, but I have not had the opportunity to hear other cartridges in this price range.
- Transparent Audio Reference XL Valve
50 foot balanced.
- Audience E version
I like them because they aren't garden hoses
- Focal Kanta No. 2
I'm enthralled with these speakers as they fit the room much better and outperform my previous Piega P-10's. And they love the JC 1's.

Comments 17

Showing all comments by gerryn.

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Owner

Vhiner: Really appreciate your comments. I read Paul McGowan's recent posts about adding an Aesthetix preamp to the mix and how much he (as you said) went from the direct to amp to "preamp is better" camp. This is what really got me going and thinking about this.....

I am trying to decide whether to first upgrade the phono preamp from the PS Audio GCPH to the Parasound JC-3 or add a separate line stage preamp like the JC-2. I am lending to both being Parasound JC's because of your comments above about using same as amp manufacturer and them both being a great "bang for the buck". Would love to look a tubes, but I like the value of the Parasound too.

Any thoughts on which one to buy first? thanks for your interest and help,

gerryn September 21, 2013 17:09

Owner

Thanks for the comments and suggestion.... The speakers are placed for both aesthetics and WAF, but I have and will again experiment in moving them a bit.

I am using a PS Audio GCPH, but am looking to upgrade someday to the Parasound JC-3 or equivalent. I'm also curious if it would make any sense to add a separate preamp vs. using the one in the Audio Aero Prestige.

Thanks again to all of you.

gerryn September 12, 2013 15:56