Squeezebox sound quality vs CD, and Panny XR55 info

[shane55]

Aside from speakers, DAC's are the most important part of the digital audio chain. Never underestimate their effect on the sound... it's HUGE!

shane

[Quinn]

No, I was using the analog connections to a NAD c372 in the shop. At home I also use analog connections to my Panny 55 right now; at the time of the Marantz vs. Sony ES test I was using NAD separates also with analog connections.

I didn't think to lend you the digital interconnect with the 563.

[Eddie]

I didn't think to lend you the digital interconnect with the 563.

Not sure the NAD c372 in the shop would even have a digital connection. My NAD separates certainly don't.

[curtis]

Not sure the NAD c372 in the shop would even have a digital connection. My NAD separates certainly don't.

It doesn't. Great integrated amp though....would be on my possibles list if I were to set-up a two-channel system.

[Grayson73]

I am still blown away by TV and movie performance, but am not too impressed so far with CD music. It doesn't sound as full as I'd like even though it is very detailed. Seems like I'm missing good midrange/upper bass and highs are too bright.

I was testing with the Kelly Clarkson Breakaway CD and Clay Aiken's CD.

I have 340SEs across the front with SVS 25-31CS sub, Panasonic SA-XR50 (100hz crossover), and Sony DVP-NS75H.

Is the problem with:
1. The CD capabilities of the DVP-NS75H
2. The 100hz crossover and/or the Panasonic SA-XR50
3. CD quality of the CDs I tested
4. Something else

I tried stereo with sub, stereo full range without sub, and DTS Neo:6. Adjusting the bass helped a little bit, but I can only do that in stereo mode.

I think I'll eventually try the SA-XR57 to see if the combination of dual amping, 80hz crossover, and upgraded electronics (I assume) improve the sound quality.

Am I expecting too much out of the speakers?

[shane55]

Grayson.
How are you feeding your receiver?
Analog or digital feeds (coax or Toslink) out of the DVD player?

shane

[Grayson73]

Grayson.
How are you feeding your receiver?
Analog or digital feeds (coax or Toslink) out of the DVD player?

shane

Digital coax

[shane55]

Digital coax

Well there you have it...
You have just eliminated the possibility that it is inferior DAC's in the CD player.

It still may be the receiver contributing to the overall quality you are experiencing, but that should be minimal. I think Brad and jermy are right-on about it being just the difference between what you are used to and the clear neutrality of the Ascends.

In other threads this has been brought up and discussed to death, but a 'neutral' speaker is not what most people are used to listening to. There is inherent coloration in most speakers, whether it be lower-mids to give them 'warmth' or upper-mids to accentuate vocals. Ascends seem to be free of most of it. It is a very good thing, but might take a bit to get used to.

Also, for serious listening tests try sources that are not produced for low-end playback systems. These types of pop releases are EQ’d with inexpensive consumer stereos or iPods in mind. Play some of your CD’s of well-recorded and well-produced acoustic and/or classical to see how well these speakers produce good sound.

GI-GO (garbage in – garbage out).

At some point yes, a better receiver with adjustable x-over points will be important to get the most out of the Ascends.

Cheers and good luck.

shane

[rajacat]

Grayson,

I don't think the problem is with the Ascends but with the Panny. I had the XR55 and found it to be harsh and bright in the upper frequencies and lacking in impact in the lower regions. However, my XR55 did have nice imaging, was very quite and seemed to cast a large sound stage. The digital sheen, for me, was the last straw and I sold it and I am now looking for a new amp. Perhaps a tube preamp would take the hard edges off the Panny. Digital amps are still in their infancy and I think that, currently, there are better options in analogue receivers such as the Outlaw that may cost more but in the long run will provide you with more satisfaction. I am going the separates route and have started with the purchase of a tube preamp and am looking for a good traditional power amp. For home theater you are probably best going with a quality traditional AVR.

Raja

[bikeman]

I don't think the problem is with the Ascends but with the Panny. Raja

It's fine that you express this opinion but it's not widely held. I, along with others on this Forum, have found the Panny to be an excellent match for the Ascends.
I think Brad has expressed what I feel is the best course of action.

David