An oft asked question???

Hermy

I have been listening to the same brutal system for the past ten years: Denon PMA720, Marantz CD63SE and Bose 301's. So now it's come time to finally replace it and I would like some help choosing what to buy. I hope some day to be able to spend in the region of 10k+ on a system (System Audio, Primare, B & W etc.) but that's a few years down the road. In the meantime I'm happy to spend as little as might be necessary to get a reasonably convincing sound, maybe as little as a thousand euros. I would prefer to shop in Cloney, especially as they often have interesting pre-owned stuff on hand, but would happily go elsewhere such as Peats if it's worth a look. Any suggestions greatly appreciated.

Slaphead07

well you're aiming in the right direction and looking at the right level of gear. There's nothing in the Cloney SH/Demo section for you at the moment though...

I'd say your CD player is ok for a while - they were a great machine "in their day" but sound a bit tinny now compared to newer machines.
The amp, again, is ok for a while but bide your time until you can pick up something good secondhand rather than those cheap & cheerful Cambridge yokes.

Your speakers are the real weak link here but I know of someone selling AVI Biggatrons for about €350. They're not well known generally but they are crackin' speakers... large bookshelf type. PM me if you're interested.

Hermy

Hi Slaphead,
Thanks for your helpful reply.
I could easily replace the whole lot with some sort of tried and tested budget/ mid-priced system but I would be a lot happier holding on to the c.d. player and amp, replacing the 301's - I agree about them being the most likely weak link - and putting up with a reasonable sound for another few years until I can afford a significant upgrade.
I'm not familiar with the Biggatrons but I would certainly be interested in trying them out.

Slaphead07

Hermy wrote: »

I'm not familiar with the Biggatrons but I would certainly be interested in trying them out.

Very few people are! Google them for more info and if you're interested I'll pass on the name/number of the owner.... they are a nice civilised neutral speaker.

It's wise to replace one component at a time anyway.... you can then hear the improvements clearly. I'd also suggest, if you haven't already, investing in decent interconnects and speaker cable.

Hermy

Slaphead07 wrote: »

I'd also suggest, if you haven't already, investing in decent interconnects and speaker cable.

Like yourself, I also believe in the importance of good cable!
I'll be in touch and thanks for your interest.

b318isp

Try calling into Cloneys, they have a much bigger 2nd hand stock than what their website shows. Also watch out for ads on:

http://www.cloneyaudio.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi