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Most beneficial change .

I am seeking opinions about what to change first , my speakers or my amplification .

I have a Primaluna Prologue 2 integrated feeding Reference 3a Decapo i speakers from a Granite Audio 657 CDP using the tubed side most of the time . I have rolled the input tubes on the integrated to warm things up some which helped nicely . The system is in a small 10'X11' room on the diagonal with some room treatments . The room is carpeted and my chair is overstuffed leather with a matching foot stool .

I get good tone , extension , details , resolution and PRaT but it is kind of boring ! It all sounds pretty good but I don't want to tap my toes ,bob my head or play the air guitar ! I can listen for long periods of time with ease but just don't want to . Easy to fall asleep ! I guess that I would like to increase the dynamics and musicality . I prefer tubes .

Suggestions ?

Thank you for your input .
saki70
elizabeth
6,726 posts
 
You are up to the point where the changes are going to be subtle, and just as good a chance to be negative as positive. I would never try to give advice about what to buy when the problem is one of 'feel'. If you like everything, except it does not make yur 'toes tap' then you have "audiophile nervosa' and if you would just relax, spend that money on some beer or wine... In other words, the problem is in your brain, not your equipment. IMO
macdadtexas
1,794 posts
 
in that room, very cool btw, I would start with new speakers. How about some Quad's? ESL 57's(rebuilds or the new German made models), or 989's. Then build your system around them Perfect space for them. Add a small sub (Velodyne DD10 or Rel B3) and man, that will be crystal clear, tremendous pace, and cool as hell to boot!!
sbank's avatar
sbank
2,038 posts
 
What have you heard elsewhere that does deliver what you seek? A point of comparison might help.
FWIW, the 3a is a great monitor IMO, and I believe they are capable of delivering the goods.
Have you spent any time listening to a good analog setup? I think digital sources usually sound like you describe.

Also, tweaks like changing cables or using Walker SST on your plugs and connectors can make a huge improvement. If you've got any local audio pals, try some things before you change any major components.

Also, PRAT is the toe-tapping thing; from your description, you certainly are not happy with your lack of PRAT. Cheers,

Spencer
stewie
182 posts
 
Agree with Macdadtexas: speakers. I would audition some good used floorstanders, with a dynamic range that approaches 25 hz on the bottom end if possible; and there are lots of great ones to choose from, though I don't know your budget. Good luck.
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