SonicSleuth
Member
- Joined
- Apr 7, 2023
- Messages
- 42
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- 26
Hello fellow music enthusiasts,
While I'm not a certified audiophile, I am passionate about music and hifi equipment and continually seek ways to improve my listening experience. Lately, I've been contemplating some speaker upgrades, specifically looking at 2nd hand high-end speakers that offer great value. I would greatly appreciate your input and advice.
Here's a quick summary of my current setup:
- Source: Wiim Pro Streamer (RCA out, direct into amp)
- Speakers: IMF Super Compact Mk2
- Amplifier: AudioLab 8000A, Behringer A500 (used separately)
- Cables: Four core Canare cables 3m each side
My listening room has quite lively acoustics in the treble (non expert opinion) which presents its own unique set of and challenges. Rugs curtains and drapes are slowly helping as is having some soft defusion behind my head, as the sofa is up against the wall.
I recently came across a post on the ASR forum suggesting that the Wiim Pro Streamer might have subpar distortion figures when using RCA out. If this is indeed accurate, I'm considering this a potential weak link in my system and would be open to suggestions for an upgrade. I'd say its hard to actually HEAR that distortion, perhaps I've never experienced truely revealing speakers worthy of 24 bit audio?
My IMF Super Compact Mk2 speakers have had their mids, tweeters, and capacitors replaced and are situated about a foot from the wall. However, one speaker cabinet does emit a slight buzz at certain frequencies, usually mid piano and vocals. While it's not overly bothersome, I do notice it, so it's got me thinking about the potential of finding a high-quality used pair that could offer an upgrade.
Regarding amplification, I switch between an AudioLab 8000A and a Behringer A500. I've found that the IMF speakers, when paired with the A500, can sound a bit too bright and fatiguing. However, with the recently purchased AudioLab 8000A, the sound is smoother and more enjoyable.
Spotify is my go-to for music, largely due to its expansive library and user-friendly interface for discovering new music. For albums that I particularly enjoy, I make a point to download them in CD quality or better, though 24bit seems pointless given the DAC in the Wiim Pro.
To fund potential speaker upgrades, I recently sold my KEF 104.2 speakers, which I had upgraded the crossovers, fixed the foam rot, which I did a good job of. I'm keen on finding a used high-end bargain that was originally in a higher price range. Models like the Linn Keilidh and Monitor Audio RX6 have caught my attention, but I'm wondering if there are other models I should consider given my amplification.
My main goal is to make meaningful upgrades. I'm not interested in changes for the sake of change; I want to make investments that will genuinely enhance my listening experience.
Lastly, I've noticed that my current system sometimes lacks depth on some tracks, I sit there expectantly listening trying to put my finger on it, but it surprises with its bass output on others. Any advice on achieving a more balanced, consistent sound would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you in advance for your insights and recommendations. I'm eagerly awaiting your responses.
Best,
Tim
While I'm not a certified audiophile, I am passionate about music and hifi equipment and continually seek ways to improve my listening experience. Lately, I've been contemplating some speaker upgrades, specifically looking at 2nd hand high-end speakers that offer great value. I would greatly appreciate your input and advice.
Here's a quick summary of my current setup:
- Source: Wiim Pro Streamer (RCA out, direct into amp)
- Speakers: IMF Super Compact Mk2
- Amplifier: AudioLab 8000A, Behringer A500 (used separately)
- Cables: Four core Canare cables 3m each side
My listening room has quite lively acoustics in the treble (non expert opinion) which presents its own unique set of and challenges. Rugs curtains and drapes are slowly helping as is having some soft defusion behind my head, as the sofa is up against the wall.
I recently came across a post on the ASR forum suggesting that the Wiim Pro Streamer might have subpar distortion figures when using RCA out. If this is indeed accurate, I'm considering this a potential weak link in my system and would be open to suggestions for an upgrade. I'd say its hard to actually HEAR that distortion, perhaps I've never experienced truely revealing speakers worthy of 24 bit audio?
My IMF Super Compact Mk2 speakers have had their mids, tweeters, and capacitors replaced and are situated about a foot from the wall. However, one speaker cabinet does emit a slight buzz at certain frequencies, usually mid piano and vocals. While it's not overly bothersome, I do notice it, so it's got me thinking about the potential of finding a high-quality used pair that could offer an upgrade.
Regarding amplification, I switch between an AudioLab 8000A and a Behringer A500. I've found that the IMF speakers, when paired with the A500, can sound a bit too bright and fatiguing. However, with the recently purchased AudioLab 8000A, the sound is smoother and more enjoyable.
Spotify is my go-to for music, largely due to its expansive library and user-friendly interface for discovering new music. For albums that I particularly enjoy, I make a point to download them in CD quality or better, though 24bit seems pointless given the DAC in the Wiim Pro.
To fund potential speaker upgrades, I recently sold my KEF 104.2 speakers, which I had upgraded the crossovers, fixed the foam rot, which I did a good job of. I'm keen on finding a used high-end bargain that was originally in a higher price range. Models like the Linn Keilidh and Monitor Audio RX6 have caught my attention, but I'm wondering if there are other models I should consider given my amplification.
My main goal is to make meaningful upgrades. I'm not interested in changes for the sake of change; I want to make investments that will genuinely enhance my listening experience.
Lastly, I've noticed that my current system sometimes lacks depth on some tracks, I sit there expectantly listening trying to put my finger on it, but it surprises with its bass output on others. Any advice on achieving a more balanced, consistent sound would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you in advance for your insights and recommendations. I'm eagerly awaiting your responses.
Best,
Tim
