Cary 303 CD - Very Detailed - Fixes?

Jcidulka. I have auditioned the 303 CD with the Cary 300SEI/LX and the sound was very lush and intoxicating.My question: Before you try anything, MAKE SURE CD PLAYER IS BROKEN IN?

Break in is crucial, as are cables. I am getting best results for my 303 with Harmonic Tech Silway II (better even than Cardas Golden Ref or Quattrofil, which is very odd, because these latter two stomp the Silway from preamp to amp).

me too- I'm almost there! Cary 303, Pro silway II, Cary sli80, and Meadowlark Shearwaters. (also Coincident PC's). mmmmm, the final bit will be either HT Pro9's or Coincident speaker cables. My system is definitely not too bright, it's just right :) Jay

It can not be stressed more, Make SURE it is broken in at least 200-400 hours. I had a similar problem with a Sony 9000ES, I thought it sucked for at least 200 hrs. It was too harsh. I almost gave up. The only thing that keep me trying was the comments on this site about the change in sound quality after 400+ hours of run in time. If your Cary is fully broken in, try these 2 things: remove any regid coupling devices (cones, spikes, ect.) 1.)install a small air ring (drug stores sell these for hemorroid customers to sit on) between transport and shelf. 2.) build some magnetic pods and use under transport to float it above shelf (I'm using pods with great success).

A lot of really good advice above.

If you're sure you want the Shearwaters, they may help correct what is bothering you. Then after that, you can make whatever additional fixes you feel you need. Otherwise, I think alot of good advice regarding cheap tweaks and cable changes has been given. I've tried some of the fixes mentioned. Some were temporary and others I've stayed with for awhile.

I've was able to reduce brightness a bit in my system by changing my interconnects from DH Labs BL-1 to Cardas Golden Cross. A much bigger difference was realized when I switched speaker cables from DH Labs Silversonic T-14 to Analysis Plus Oval 9. It had the effect of reducing brightness, creating a fuller, rounder sound, and greatly improving soundstaging.

Also, I've heard some differences trying the Black Diamond Racing Cones in my system. I purchased the mk3 which are said to have a dark sound quality. Under my DAC and CD player, I heard only minor changes. But under my Sim Audio Moon I-5 integrated amp, the difference was more noticeable. Warmer and and less strident, but it also had the effect of muddying up the bass.

The frustrating thing about this process, is it's so time consuming, and costly. Why can't we get what we want on the first try??!!! But then again, the process is what makes this hobby so dang fun!