How do I go backwards?


I need the help of those people who have cut back on their systems. Due to the deep financial problems my health has created I need to sell off my system, either fully or partially. My system is a Sony SCD-1 (modified) front end, an Aesthetix Calypso pre-amp, two Plinius SA-102 amps bi-amped vertically, Dunlavy IVa speakers and all Nordost Valhalla cabling. My initial feeling is that the front end and speakers have the least value, in that Dunlavy is out of business and the Sony is modified. The cabling is by far the most out of line cost wise for the system I have so I’m looking at them first. So my first question is for people who have tried or sold their Valhalla cables for something substantially cheaper without loosing the detail, speed and transparency. Please speak from experience and what you felt was lost by going “backwards.” Secondly I’m going to need to sell one of the Plinius amps, and possibly both and replace with ????
My biggest concern is my system is so good and soooo musical I’m afraid stepping backward will result in a system that will no longer be enjoyable, and thus my love for recorded music will be lost. I hate to think of no music, but I know if my system looses too much, I’ll simply quit listening. I hope to avoid that.
Please share your experiences and your opinions on how to cut back.
Thank you
J.D.
jadem6
JD- I think that you should seriously consider a quality integrated (save cabling $), and an older but high quality digital front end. Very steep discount on older digital products. Another possibility would be a CDP w/a volume control and a power amp. Used Res Audio 55 (I think it has volume), maybe a single Threshold Class A amp, used pair of monitors. Another possibility would be to try out an SET integrated and a pair of reasonably priced single driver horns. Sell those Valahallas for AU-24. If you had an integrated or a CDP w/volume, you could get by with one pair of ICs and speaker cables (well under $1K, if lengths are moderate)
Wow Lugnut, great move. Sorta brings tears to my eyes.

Lugnut - YOU are a Class Act.
Oh my am I glad I clicked on this thread. JD, I wish you had at least gotten with me as we are closeby. I already had half a system for you in my mind by the time I got to Lugnut's response. And from what he can ship to you and what I can give to you, you should have pretty good music in short time with your CD player and speakers.

You know I'm a bloom and dimensionality fan here, not quite the high-resolution guy here as you, but I have an amp and several pairs of XLR cables for you if they bring on a musical enjoyment back at your home. The amp is my long time favorite backup: the Counterpoint NPS400 which might not have the Plinius detail, but brings on an outstanding level of musicality. And I can bring over a stack of XLR cables, NBS Statement, Signature, Harmonic Tech One, SilverAudio Apassionata, and some power cords too.

So between Lugnut and I, we have your electronics and cables covered. I can even bring these over one night this week to let you hear them and even help you set some things up. Just let me know when you have a free evening.

John
You guys are like the audio EMT's. Unbelievable!

JD, sounds like you will soon have full system relief. If not, please post again afterwards and let us know what you still need.
All the best,
Howard