Since past weekend, I have completed a full circle on system-upgrades.
The whole system downstairs now has cost me 4000 euros,
although also considering the bedroom system, gear that I have replaced, unused cables,
many tweaks and headphones, the expenses in the last three years, after I started this hobbie,
reach up to 6600 euros.
Yes, at this current moment I feel, that it is probably a good place to stop.
While conceding that often after acquiring a component there has been a pinch of disappointment, it may well have stemmed from unrealistic expectations or unsufficient surrounds. It is true, that the sq at disposal now is superior to what it was while using the old amp and speakers given me by my father and given that I now have two systems and more knowledge, I don’t feel like I have spent TOO much during these three years, even if it is my half-years pay. I feel no regrets. Good sound is a beautiful thing.
If it might not be a full-stop for me, it certainly will be a long intermediate one.
My last acqusition was a pair of speakers, Bowers & Wilkins 603. What I have found true, is that rarely does one component trash the previous one completely, as its price might suggest. While many things might be better with the new acqusition, there also probably will be something in which you lose. It could also be measured only by your preference.
I use Ares II DAC, Pro-Ject preamp and XTZ EDGE A2-300 amplification with these and my assessment at the moment is definitely incomplete. For one thing, a period of burn-in is order, and that also for myself.
And then there is this constant suspicion that I should perhaps reorganize some furniture...
What I feel now, must be no surprise to anyone: these speakers are bright and forward, some (hissing) vocals can be sharp and tiring. In a way, these speakers attack me, and I feel I need more distance. Of course, this I expected and have no problem with. What I will have a problem with is too early to tell. What I definitely have no problem with, is the clearness, detail, glitter, vigor.
The time of the chase must be over now, I feel I have it quite well balanced out.
It truly is a precious moment. A moment to relax and listen to some music.