As it stands my system is fast, detailed and transparent. I would like to add a touch of air and harmonics to the system and perhaps enhance the focus a bit. I also want to enhance my system dynamics, hopefully by adding a high-current power amp. I have a Supratek Cortese Linestage on order. I am also going to replace the 4B-ST. Probably with a Sim Audio Moon W-5. I don't have problems with the sound of the Bryston but it runs out of steam sooner than I prefer and I think an amp that doubles down into 2 ohms will enhance the dynamics and control of my Thiels. I would appreciate comments on my proposed amp selection. The other alternative amp that I am considering is a Pass Labs X-250. After upgrading my preamp and amp I will add a single disc transport. Probably either a Vecteur D-2 or Rega Planet.
System edited: added Digital Audio Server to my system. removed the Sony CDP, 2 x Monarchy DIP's, z-Systems sample rate converter. i am amazed at the improvement made by upgrading the transport, and to a pc at that.
System edited: Added another monarchy DIP, a Weiss Hydra and Z-Systems 3-src. The digital portion of my system may seem like it is out of control but all of these additions brought improvements or they wouldn't be here. I have 5 AZ MC2 AES/EBU in my system now.
I have never had the opportunity to listen to the Plinius. They are well regarded though. I talked once to a dealer who sells both lines. He said the W-5 has a more linear response with tighter, more visceral bass impact and extended highs. The Plinius, according to the dealer, is warmer will slightly rolled off treble. If I had to characterize the W-5 I would say that it has the control and slam of a Krell FPB series amp with some of the sweetness and air of a tube amp. The W-5 would sound very good driving the maggies.
I think Brystons are better suited for reproducing amplified music than acoustic and smaller venues rather than larger ones. Don't quote me but sometimes I get the feeling that the brystons don't reproduce harmonics well, something required for good acoustic reproduction. Also I don't think the Brystons offer all the transparency to the back of the soundstage that they do at the front. In other words they may be a little veiled or hazy at the back of the stage. The jury is still out but when I replace the amp I'll know better.
Analog just isn't convenient for me. I have a hard time listening to all of my existing collection with a jukebox CD player. There is no way I am going to spin records every 20 minutes.
I think Brystons are better suited for reproducing amplified music than acoustic and smaller venues rather than larger ones. Don't quote me but sometimes I get the feeling that the brystons don't reproduce harmonics well, something required for good acoustic reproduction. Also I don't think the Brystons offer all the transparency to the back of the soundstage that they do at the front. In other words they may be a little veiled or hazy at the back of the stage. The jury is still out but when I replace the amp I'll know better.
Analog just isn't convenient for me. I have a hard time listening to all of my existing collection with a jukebox CD player. There is no way I am going to spin records every 20 minutes.
