Andy Hewitt wrote:
I'm currently upgrading some of my hi-fi here, and just got an old
Technics SL-1800 off eBay, with an Ortofon VM20E cartridge attached.

If only I knew what a difference it would have made to using my old Sony
midi deck, I would have done this years ago. The difference in sound
from just changing the deck alone is astonishing. I've only had a chance
to play Ultravox Vienna so far, which was my most recent occupant on the
Sony, but the stereo imaging, and liveliness of the sound is just
amazing.


Cracking little combo.

I'm still trying to work to a budget here, but I think I'm managing to
collect a reasonable system up by scouring eBay. I currently have a
Yamaha 'Natural Sound' 60w/ch (x5) DTS Receiver (RXV396 I think), which
is pretty capable, and seems reasonably neutral, and certainly doesn't
lack any punch.


I just bought one of those, or similar, and very capable it is. If it
has the preamp outs (like mine) you can bolt on another power amp(s). I
bought one of these:

http://www.behringer.com/A500/index.cfm?lang=ENG

just for a sniff at 'non-hifi' and it really does the trick.

My next upgrade is the DVD player, I currently have a cheap Sony box,
which will be replaced by a NAD TD550 DVD/CD player (on the way). My
only concern is the limitations with CD-R discs, but if the sound
quality is as the reviews suggest, I'll be preferring to use it for
commercial recordings anyway. I guess a cheap standalone CD player might
do for the iTunes discs I make.


I'd stick to the NAD or your existing Sony (if capable). I've got an old
Sony DVD player and never seen any need to change it.

For surround sound I don't have a centre speaker at the moment, and I'm
really not bothered about a sub-bass. I use my JPW Sonatas as main
speakers (They are my only decent speakers), and a pair of very old
Hills 50w for the rear. To replace these, and supply a centre, I've just
ordered a Mission M3S kit - less Sub. Again, reviews suggest these
should be a vast improvement.


Should be fine for HT, if a little bass light. Will it be a case of
plugging in the new/existing main speakers in when needed?

Finally, for a pair of main front speakers, which I also intend to use
for plain audio, I'm hoping to win a pair of Castle Severn floor
standers. It was my intention to go for floor standers anyway. If these
fall through I'll probably be looking at the Mordaunt Short 914s at
Richer Sounds, or a pair of Tannoy Fusion 3s.


Not sure what to recommend - they're probably all OK (especially the
Castles if you win them!), but I'd suggest having a listen before you
buy. FWIW I liked Missions (their floorstanders are pretty cheap on
ebay) until hearing Dynaudio.

So far I've collected this lot up for just over £300, and I expect to
make a little back on the old stuff.


That's good going ...

Any recommendations or suggestions appreciated. I'm fairly well guessing
at things here, and looking for items that look like good value.


Perhaps 'clear as you go' to avoid a mass collection of audio sundries -
and thereby remove the fun :-)

Rob