I also found that that there must be synergy between electronics and speakers. I was ready to toss my speakers until I made a slight upgrade in amplification and a brand switch. My mid-fi Paridigms sounded night and day better switching from Rotel separates to an entry level Arcam integrated. I don't think there's a huge difference in build or component quality, they're just voiced differently. The Arcam complemented the speakers better.