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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
greh
129 posts
 
Being an owner of the 303/100 for some time now the last thing I find the player to be is harsh or bright.
Just my 2 cents, you may want to try the Harmonic Technology Pro Silway 11 ic's.
A much cheaper endeavor then switching around cdp's and there are a fair number for sale right here on Audiogon.
charliee's avatar
charliee
54 posts
 
How many hours of break in time do you have on the player?
It requires about 300 hrs. before it smooths out.

Set it to play on repeat and let it play continuously to
build up break in time when you not useing your system.

Check out the review on the Cary website. It covers a sim-
ular situation to yours, and describes the break in solu-
tion. WWW.positive-feedback.com/issue3/303.htm
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.
Ag insider logo xs@2x
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
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