System upgrade questions

In my system the NDS with two 555PS was a compelling improvement over NDS with a single 555PS.  It wasn't one of those situations where I needed to compare and back track to be sure. From the first notes, which with a single 555PS had been the first note, it was obvious. The big trick is to dig out all the derail without losing the musical whole. Easy in the case of this combination.

I have used Powerlines routinely for so long that it is difficult to remember the magnitude and nature of the benefit, although when I put them on the 252/Super/300 they stayed, so they must have been good. More recently I tried SL in place of NACA5. The improvement in presentation was obvious but the sound balance sounded wrong. After about 3 weeks they had made a strong case for themselves, but they took some time to bed in. If trying our SL which is new or has low hours use, this is worth bearing in mind - if it doesn't sound brilliant out of the box, which has also been reported. No two systems/rooms/ears and all that......

I used to have that very system. What did I do next? I got a 552. It's the biggest improvement you could make (Statement aside of course).

Hi CXF04

Given your start point and the cost of a 555PS, the halibut speaks most wisely.

Best regards, FT

HH and FT are absolutely correct !

Should be a very significant improvement and fundamental to reach your "end game".

ATB,

Mark

As Mr Halibut suggests, with your existing CDS 3, the obvious move would be to seek out a good deal of part exchanging your 252 / Supercap in favour of a 552. The difference is not insubstantial, as I discovered when making this move some months ago.

As far as the NDS is concerned, adding a second 555 PS is, as Harry says, well worthwhile, and the resulting sound seems more "live music" if that makes any sense, with an extra layer of detail which previously was missing.

I've since added the Super Lumina speaker cables and interconnect, and it's even more of the same, following a lengthy running in period.

Assuming that you will be planning any upgrades incrementally, which single one did I find made the largest difference?

Well, I'd have to say it was the introduction of the 552 DR, so if you're happy with your CDS 3, (and it is a wonderful player), I'd plump for this.

Maybe next have a home demo of the Super Lumina, though make sure the cables have already been well run in by your dealer.

The NDS and twin power supplies is a magical thing, but it may well prove that you will already be more than happy with the outcome of the first two upgrades.

Hope this helps,

Dave.