Vote

My system's biggest downfall is unquestionably its suboptimal setup. I have recently moved, and the system has not sounded the same since. As to what to do about it—probably nothing until I move again, although relocating it to a different room and getting a second "cheapie" system for the first room is tempting.

To me, it's the software—most CDs are so messed up (to sound "better" on some ghettoblaster, maybe?), it isn't even funny any more. I am very happy indeed with my hardware (a big "thank you" to Wadia, Mark Levinson, Krell, Transparent, and, especially, Avalon!).

Unless it breaks, I'm waiting on the sidelines to see what happens to SACD and DVD-A, or even the DVD audio standard (24/96).

The room is, by far, the biggest problem. Unfortunately, I won't have a dedicated room for some time. My next choice would be the AC. Time for a PS Audio P300 and an audition of some AC cords.

The software: CDs made with compressed dynamics and possible copy protection! My solution is simple-stop buying CD's!

Speakers, if I have to pick one. Everything is wrong in my low-fi so-called "system" (I am ashamed to mentioned them names). I will tackle the problem in the following areas: a)speakers (make my own), b)CD player (SACD is a good candidate), c)AV receiver (maybe try an audio only integrated amp by NAD) d)room (move audio stuff to a room without HT gear) and ... I swear I am not going to become an audiophile!

Although I am very happy with my system, I would probably replace my speaker and interconnect cables if I had the urge to upgrage anything. Contrary to popular belief, I think a nice pair of kilo-buck cables would make a difference in my system. Now, if I could only find a way to get "her" to pay for it without her knowledge. Hmmm...

Graduate from college and get a job.

Cry, if I want to.

I will replace them next year.

My Adcom 5500 has been a great amp, but after five years it is time to upgrade. It is the weakest link in my audio chain. The Classé 200W monoblocks are looking like a good choice.

I'm waiting for a good one that won't cost me the price of a new car.

Im going to build some fiberglass panels for key points in the room, and get a line conditioner to clean up my AC. Furniture re-arrangement is, unfortunatley, extremely limited.

My JVC XL-M509 CD Player/Changer. It sounds a little soft on the bottom, and it doesn't sound as refined on the top. My first attempt to correct this problem is to consider buying an outboard DAC to use with it. And then, if that doesn't correct the problem, then I may just go ahead and get rid of it, and get me a Sony ES changer instead. I know that a CD changer does not conform to audiophile standards today, and any audiophile worth any grain of salt would not even be inclined to include one in his or her system. But on the other hand, I cannot do without the convenience either. So then, what gives??

I've a +12dB bass-mode in my room and no space to put huge absorber. I wish for surround gear to have a parametric EQ to control that.

My wallet is the weakest link in my system. I'll be greatful for any expert advice or tweaks to remedy the problem.

UPGRADE, UPGRADE, UPGRADE!

Definitely the listening room. A 22'L X 14'W X9'H room is nice to have, but it also doubles as my living room as well, which can cause noticeable diffractions in the sound. Next house: A dedicated room with treatment for sure.

Buy a nice tube amp

The room is often the weak link. Although digital room correction units are available, I'm a purist at heart. Keep it simple, and take your time to get things right.

I plan to whine, pester, pout, sulk, and complain about my room . . . Then, after I have had my fill I will build my dream house. hehe :)

I've finally reached the point where I said "Enough is enough." Since I realized that all of my components are a compromise, I now feel free to enjoy the music. Talk about liberation! It's a shame that it took so long to get here.

I can't improve my speaker placement until I replace the TV with a plasma wall-mount, since my hi-fi is land-locked as a video sound system.

Generic speaker cables and dissimular interconnects... upgrade and standardization now in progres...

I'm waiting for SACD to catch on.

My room is definitely the weakest link. Reflections cause a lot of problems. I've tried and will buy the TacT RCS 2.0. An amazing product that solves all room problems.

My Marantz CD 17 is not exactly up to date, so I suppose it will be replaced within a year.

What do you consider the weakest link in your audio system. The speakers What are you going to do about it? dream I could afford replacing them with new ones (multi-giga-buck for sure!)

As funds become available I will replace my Nordost Quattro Fils with Valhallas.

I have an inexpensive Musical FIdelity X-Pre. While it is an excellent value, it is not the last word in resolution.