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.

https://preview.redd.it/k9uoii25054c1.jpg?width=6000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1e2b0a55ca7de13fe81d9877ea3fdd52194d263d

https://preview.redd.it/d2iojg25054c1.jpg?width=4000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=67d255b1dad4884e4e7bc580e2e9e813590f8943

https://preview.redd.it/970gqd25054c1.jpg?width=4000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=53e1dc7b761b34060392e0b36ca8820088fe7ccb

https://preview.redd.it/ek0l7925054c1.jpg?width=4000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=81fa936ae787ac396176d6ed041091b8eafca390

https://preview.redd.it/ykmqub25054c1.jpg?width=4000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f6cad6436b92e62de714739415efa3647715e1a4

https://preview.redd.it/nmz0xe25054c1.jpg?width=4000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f9b807b1b88b869d3f7641cba9d163083530acfc

https://preview.redd.it/fouxsh25054c1.jpg?width=4000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c31ee3ac81500436abcf426ec9944b68c22a37c7

  • fediverser
    link
    fedilink
    arrow-up
    1
    ·
    9 months ago

    This post is an automated archive from a submission made on /r/vintageaudio, powered by Fediverser software running on alien.top. Responses to this submission will not be seen by the original author until they claim ownership of their alien.top account. Please consider reaching out to them let them know about this post and help them migrate to Lemmy.

    Lemmy users: you are still very much encouraged to participate in the discussion. There are still many other subscribers on !vintage@hi-fi.community that can benefit from your contribution and join in the conversation.

    Reddit users: you can also join the fediverse right away by getting by visiting https://portal.alien.top. If you are looking for a Reddit alternative made for and by an independent community, check out Fediverser.