Downstrung

It looks like the few experiences and assessments (mine included) of what was heard at the show seem to focus on many of the same rooms. I was similarly enchanted by the Marten/E.A.R. room, which I also visited more than a few times. Bravo also on the room you contributed to with the Magico Q5s, as I have never heard Rachmaninov sound so full, grand and perfectly scaled as I did on Saturday morning. On that note, I've become quite interested in the Acoustic ART system which seemed to be a component of many rooms, and am considering a purchase to assess its performance in my space. Nonetheless, with many a room featuring this treatment, I will agree the sound was often less than spectacular. <br /> <br /> I'm just starting to get more deeply involved (obsessed) with the HiFi world; blogging about my experiences and reviewing (if you can really call it that yet) the equipment I've come across. Maybe next time I'll recognize your name on a badge and say hello. I'm glad to have found your site and the resources you have put together here! Thanks!

I'm going to have to agree with darascal and say that Audioengine A5s + a good basic DAC will really open you up to much of the audiophile experience. In fact, this was one of my very first moves into Audiophile-land and I was very happy with the setup for many years. I have even heard the particular DAC he mentioned and it is quite good indeed for that price point, so do look those up and give them some serious consideration. Interestingly enough I have my pair of A5s in a box in the closet tucked away in case of emergency, though I have also thought about selling them. It's kinda tacky, but in this case I can't resist offering them to you for a good price; just shoot me a message if you're interested. Good luck with your search!