Seeking Advice on Upgrading My Audio Setup

Bernadette

Hey fellow audio enthusiasts,

I hope you're all doing well. I'm currently in the process of upgrading my audio setup and could use some guidance from the experienced members of this forum. Allow me to provide you with all the necessary details, including gear models, to help paint a clearer picture:

Current Setup:
- Amplifier: Yamaha A-S501
- Speakers: KEF Q350
- Source: MacBook Pro (connected via USB)
Desired Upgrades/Goals:
- Enhance overall sound quality, particularly in terms of clarity, detail, and imaging.
- Improve bass response without overpowering other frequency ranges.
- Maintain a budget-friendly approach.
Potential Options Under Consideration:
Option 1:
- Amplifier: Cambridge Audio CXA81
  - Speakers: Bowers & Wilkins 606 S2 Anniversary Edition
  - DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter): Schiit Modi 3
  Option 2:
  - Amplifier: Marantz PM7000N
  - Speakers: Monitor Audio Bronze 200
  - DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter): Topping E30
Room Details:
- Size: Approximately 15ft x 20ft x 8ft (LxWxH)
- Acoustics: Moderately treated with diffusers and absorbers
Musical Preferences:
I primarily listen to a wide range of genres, including rock, jazz, classical, and electronic music. Therefore, versatility in reproducing different musical styles accurately is crucial.

Now that you have all the relevant information about my current setup, goals, potential options under consideration, and room details – I would greatly appreciate any advice or recommendations you can offer me.

If you have personal experience with any of the gear mentioned or alternative suggestions that align with my goals and budget, please don't hesitate to share your insights. Additionally, if you've encountered similar challenges or have specific tips for optimizing audio in a room of this size, I'm all ears!

Thank you in advance for your time and expertise. I look forward to hearing your valuable input.

Best regards

BeatJunkie91

Thanks for all the insightful feedback! I appreciate the detailed suggestions and experiences everyone shared. It's grat to see so many perspectives, especially on the potential synergy between different amps and speakers.

One thing I've realized through this process is that trying to pick the perfect audio setup can sometimes feel like being a DJ at a salad bar... you keep mixing but it's still all just lettuce in the end. 😄 But seriously, your advice has really helped me narrow down my choices.

Based on what everyone has mentioned, I'm leaning more towards Option 1 with the Cambridge Audio CXA81 and Bowers & Wilkins speakers. It seems like it would offer the clarity and versatility I'm looking for without totally breaking my budget.

If anyone has any last-minute thoughts or cautions before I pull the trigger on this setup, let me know—I’m all ears! Thanks again for helping me tune into the best options (pun intended).