Vintage HiFi Audio Forum

Audio Discussion => CARVER => Topic started by: audiott on June 12, 2013, 08:01:14 PM

Title: Upgrade
Post by: audiott on June 12, 2013, 08:01:14 PM
I almost hesitate to post this question as I can already hear the cannon fire erupting. But, I just gotta know.  I have a Tanberg 3008A preamp, a Marantz 2245 being used as an amp only and Klipsch F3s. Where should I put my money, speakers or amp? I don't like overly bright systems. If you have a recommendation for speakers or amp let me know. Trying to stay under 500 upgrade. Prefer used gear due to cost.
Title: Re: Upgrade
Post by: Slim-Shaddy on June 12, 2013, 08:14:21 PM
Speakers are going to make the biggest difference. If you are happy with the klipsches and just want to give them more power, the answer is obvious.
Title: Re: Upgrade
Post by: audiott on June 12, 2013, 08:22:07 PM
Obviously, I am new to this. Does adding more power change the sound quality or just the volume?
Title: Re: Upgrade
Post by: Slim-Shaddy on June 12, 2013, 08:27:08 PM
Both, kind of. Lots of crappy watts will sound worse than fewer quality watts.
Title: Re: Upgrade
Post by: audiott on June 12, 2013, 08:29:12 PM
I got it! 
Title: Re: Upgrade
Post by: Sir Thrift-a-Lot on June 12, 2013, 08:38:23 PM
I don't like overly bright systems.

I like bright systems and therefore love Klipshes.   I would think given that statement you may find other speakers that suit you better.
Title: Re: Upgrade
Post by: audiott on June 12, 2013, 08:40:46 PM
Hmmm. I don't find mine bright.  Maybe its the Marantz evening it out.
Title: Re: Upgrade
Post by: MacGeek on June 12, 2013, 09:23:37 PM
The right amp will improve woofer control and increase headroom, lowering compression and improving bass response.
Title: Re: Upgrade
Post by: SunnyDaze on June 12, 2013, 10:14:25 PM
As markshan said, Klipsch speakers are about as bright as they come. Even with the Crites diaphragms installed, they still push the edge of what I'd consider tolerable for long listening sessions.

That being said, I think your best upgrade point at present would be speakers. Check around on CL and wherever else you wish and do some research on what you find.

Also, if you are local, check out the inventory at Vintage Hi Fi. You may find something there that you find tonally pleasant.
Title: Re: Upgrade
Post by: audiott on June 12, 2013, 10:41:36 PM
I am local. I swing by the shop frequently. I guess I have to find where tom is hiding all the good speakers.
Title: Re: Upgrade
Post by: SunnyDaze on June 12, 2013, 10:52:56 PM
Ouch.
Title: Re: Upgrade
Post by: audiott on June 12, 2013, 11:01:56 PM
Didn't mean it as a slam! haven't seen many speakers there. Tons of other goodies. I have bought three turntables there and a preamp in the last few months.  Definitely a fan
Title: Re: Upgrade
Post by: StephenWVU on June 12, 2013, 11:04:41 PM
You said your price range is around 500?  I only have experience with the Tandberg as I think it may have once been mine.  I would tend to agree with others and say if you don't like bright you might want to consider a new pair of speakers.  I don't know if I have anything that would suit you right now but I am looking at upgrading my main system which could leave me with some extra speakers to sell for a little over that price range. (subwoofer would be needed) 
Title: Re: Upgrade
Post by: audiott on June 12, 2013, 11:14:29 PM
If I come speakers that I am considering, I will through it out on the forum for opinions/advise.
Title: Re: Upgrade
Post by: F1nut on June 13, 2013, 02:55:30 AM
Polk SDA 2B's with the TL mod. You can thank me later.  8)
Title: Re: Upgrade
Post by: Slim-Shaddy on June 13, 2013, 08:44:37 AM
I agree with F1... Polk SDA series are pretty neutral/warm sounding. My experience with Mirage m890i's is the same.
Title: Re: Upgrade
Post by: audiott on June 13, 2013, 08:47:05 PM
thanks I will check them out
Title: Re: Upgrade
Post by: OldiesButGoodies on June 13, 2013, 09:21:33 PM
Polk SDAs are in my bucket list.  But the Maggies have to dies first.  And they are pretty alive right now.
Title: Re: Upgrade
Post by: audiott on June 13, 2013, 09:31:24 PM
What does the cable that runs between the speakers do on the Polk SDA 2B's?
Title: Re: Upgrade
Post by: Falcon on June 13, 2013, 11:35:33 PM
Here is great upgrade for you, and the seller is an awesome guy!  Discount for forum members.  ;D
p.m. if interested.
http://pittsburgh.craigslist.org/ele/3869680248.html (http://pittsburgh.craigslist.org/ele/3869680248.html)

Title: Re: Upgrade
Post by: F1nut on June 14, 2013, 02:12:26 AM
What does the cable that runs between the speakers do on the Polk SDA 2B's?

It corrects the inherent problem with every conventional speaker, interaural crosstalk. This is accomplished passively by sending a frequency limited signal from the right speaker to the left and vice versa. The dimenisonal (SDA) drivers also play at a reduced volume. The result is a much more realistic sound stage and precise imaging.
Title: Re: Upgrade
Post by: audiott on June 14, 2013, 07:03:52 PM
thanks for the explanation