Do higher end CD players and amps make a HUGE difference? I’m not talking £5k+ but stuff from Cyrus, Roksan etc.
Yes.
But before price kicks in, you have to work out which company produces products that you prefer the sound of.
I like Marantz and Creek amps.
To me, Arcam and NAD are a bit dull and closed in, whilst Cyrus are way too forward.
Same with speakers – I like the house sound of Tannoy – Monitor Audio not so much.
Older Technics CD players and Rega/Pink Triangle turntables work for me. Linn not so much.
Pick a sound you like – spending more within that brand will give incremental improvements but won’t fundamentally change the tone.
Basically, do voices sound like real voices?
Do simple instruments like brass, guitar and piano sound like the real thing?
Can you hear the bass? Is it distinct and does it go as low as it should?
Can you tell acoustic bass from electric?
You’re more than welcome to pop round and have a listen.
Rega 3 turntable with a Denon cartridge.
Marantz PM66KI amp (If you can find one, buy it).
Technics SLPG CD player.
Tannoy DC6T floorstanders.
Could not be happier.