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Hi I sort of introduced myself earlier but after scanning the new member intros I realised that I have not described my somewhat simple 2 channel system. So here it goes Amp: quad 909 Pre amp: audible illusions modulus 3 Source: Oppo 105/rega planar 3 Speakers: JR 149 + sub All wired up with xlo interconnect I listen to almost anything with the exception of opera. I love the imaging and mid range voicing of this system, but crave a slightly more dynamic presentation. During the last 30 years i have owned/used some very expensive valve and solid state gear, but have ended up with this very simple setup. It lets me enjoy the music. I hope you are enjoying yours

I have never seen a scientific study on the matter or even read an in depth discussions by respected reviews but what do you think is the most critical comment in any system? I could be funny and say the room or listening area. But I think we all accept, regardless of treatment, construction or design the room plays a huge part in the final balance of your overall sound. But let's ignore the room. And look at the gear. I'm going to cut to the chase here and say I agree with one comment I read quiet some time back that the most important component(s) is both ends. Yes more than one (not counting the room). If your media player sound is not upto scratch the final sound will never be "perfect". Looking at the other end, regardless of the rest of the audio chain if your speakers are rubbish the rest of the gear doesn't matter. So I do believe that it is both ends which are critical. I have even read that most preamps and powers (and cables if you think about it) will do a reasonable job. Provide you have top notch gear at both ends you have s good system. Right? Now I have to say that the biggest change and improvement I have heard in my system has come about by changing my power amp. The bit that is not meant to matter. Well it does. At lest it does for me. I have had some fab. comments from many others how good my system sounds will all my other gear in place. I loved it too and thought it unbeatable. The sound I like in my listening room. But the replacement of my power amp with a DIY Sure Electronics based Class D amp has totally change the sound of my system. And for the better by a mile. The power amp had in place was a very expesnive DIY 300B so no slouch. When I upgraded the Xovers in my DIY 2-way speakers to a third order I felt a huge lift in soundstage, focus and clarity. But still the single biggest change I have ever experienced is the inclusion of this 500W Class D amp I call ROBUSTO. Is it just the massive power or is it the new, now matured, technology? Let me know what you think is the most critical gear in any system.