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help with harshness / brightness - cary 303-100

I'm really new to audio. I've just set up my first system. Its: plinius 82000 int. amp, well tempered classic TT with upgraded arm and platter, cary 303/100 cdp, energery veritas 2.3 speakers. I just added the turntable last night and the entire system sounds great. I am now wondering if I have a problem with my cd player fitting into my system or if there is a cable tweek that can help. The harshness that is present really makes me turn the volume down and after a short listening session ... loose interest and leave the room. I'm currently using the reference 2 monster cable for interconnects and monstercable 12 gauge flat wire for my speaker cables. I'm ready to purchase cables ... is there a cure? Or should I try another player for my system that is less bright? Room treatments?
andrew7540
ohlala
993 posts
 
There is no doubt that tubes are most effective solution. At least a tube preamp. If it is that harsh, cables and breakin are nothing. Maybe there is a CDP that won't burn your ears in comparison to your TT in that system, but tubes are a sure cure. I just added a nice tube pre to my Cary 303, and I am tellin' you, its it.
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drubin
3,240 posts
 
With all due respect to Ohlala, you do not need a tube preamp to get unfatiguing sound from the Cary CDP, especially with the Plinius integrated.
soundlogic's avatar
soundlogic
47 posts
 
First off, I would be tempted NOT to ad Silver cabling to an ALL solid state system. Try one length of Cardas Golden Cross, between your amp and pre, or CDP and Pre. GC is very mellow, yet does not hide information.System synergy, with cabling is what the holy grail is all about. It takes some time, but is worth the effort.
The thought of adding a tubed pre, is very good advise also, but try some cable changes( borrowing from a dealer), and see what happens. Make sure the cables are broken in.
Tim
ohlala
993 posts
 
Well Drubin, he does have a fatigue problem with the Plinius-Cary combination. I have heard the Cary with other "nonfatiguing" SS amplification, and it was harsh. Tubes are a sure cure, so one does not have to search around for that certain special SS pre/amp. Sure Andrew could try other thing like different CDPs and whatever, but I suggested tubes b/c they rule with the 303. So yes I am sure you are right, but I did not say the Cary has to have tubes.
andrew7540 OP
4 posts
 
THANKS EVERYONE,

I GUESS THAT I HAVE SOME WORK TO DO. I'D WHICH DIRECTLY TO THE TUBES BUT ... THEN I'D HAVE TO GET BOTH A PRE AND AMP. SO I THINK THAT I'LL TRY SOME CABLE OPTIONS FIRST. IF THAT FAILS ... WHAT ABOUT THE CARY TUBED PLAYER? OR A DAC?

ANDREW
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