Recently, I’ve been attuned to a subtle but bothersome issue in my audio setup—a certain mushiness, particularly noticeable at lower volumes. It’s a bit challenging to articulate, but it seems as if the sound is compressed, with the vocals and bass losing clarity amidst the other instruments. (My source is FLAC played through a Schiit Modi DAC.)
In an attempt to remedy this, I applied some DeoxIT to the pods and the connections, which has yielded improvement, though not to my complete satisfaction. I find myself pondering whether my discernment has become more refined or if my once-shining system has lost some of its luster. What’s undeniable is my weariness with the repetitive disassembly required for DeoxIT applications.
I’m contemplating a shift to a more modern setup, one that delivers sharper and more consistent sound. If I were to explore alternatives, considering my budget—comprising the resale value of my current kit plus an additional $1000—what recommendations would you have?
Furthermore, if any of you audio enthusiasts out there can shed light on the root cause of the initial issue, I’d be eager to hear your insights.
