Is the magic in shindo or verity?

It sounds like you heard one expensive and probably poorly setup system vs one properly dialed one.

Many large stores put together systems based on price rather than synergistic matching of components.

Is Shindo better than Solution perhaps, I have heard the Magico and boy they sound good but hardly worth $30k for a two way! So just remember a well setup system will outperform and expensive mess.

I agree with $ vs poor set-up, but I do think the Verity's have a remarkable sound. At CES, the Artimis/Schroeder/Verity room came alive!!! It was one of the best rooms at THE Show, let alone the whole CES hi-fi floors. Once again, it was set-up properly and you can tell...other rooms that had the Verity's didn't come alive as much if at all. It's very hard to find a dealer that listens with their ears and not the eyes and pocketbook...best of luck!

Hello,

Source is KING. Your comparing two systems one was CD sourced the other was sourced by one of the best tables in the world. The energy or "life" as you mention is what the Garrard 301 brings to the table, IMO. Your hearing a table that will hold proper speed.

The first time you hear a Garrard it is an ear opening experience, it is hard to love a belt driven table again.
Even one as creative as yours ; 0 )

Go back to that same place and hook the Garrard up to the Magico set up, I expect you will be again dazzled.

The Shindo, Verity, Magcio and Zanden are great stuff, but
the Garrard is very very special.

Um I wouldn't exactly call the second system "inexpensive" either. It sounds like great, musical gear well selected and well setup.