Cd source for my System

[Vicca Tito 2]

Helo,
I am considering suggestions for the next CD player that would possibly cover my needs in two systems:
One consisting of Densen Beat 100 amplifier and JBL Ti-1000 loudspeakers,
the other one built around 2x2 EL-34 valves amplifying in push-pull regime and the same pair of JBL speakers.
Now my system is feeded from Sony CD 930QS player (which is too dull for my taste) and the NAD C521BEE, which seems too agressive, although slightly on the better in terms of resolution.
Any chances for mods?
Both are used as a transport systems through Cambridge audio DACMAGIC DAC3, with results relatively satisfying, but not right in terms of tonal balance. Tastes would rather be on the warmer side of tonal spectrum, with heights not agressive, but with considerable detail and resolution.
Again, Any chances for mods of DACMAGIC3?
Or should anyone suggest the other way of rearrangements?
Thanks in advance.

Viktor

[Mooly]

Hi,
I think I can sort of imagine how your system sounds. You crave a much more "musical" softer sound. One where the top notes on a violin really do sing and not grate and sound harsh for example. Where you can close your eyes and really become at one with the music. Where you can place every instrument in front of you.
From very limited listening to JBL's a long time ago I always thought them a bit "hard" sounding, a bit like Missions, no finesse at all. (My opinion) That's going to upset someone I'm sure.
No easy answer to this one. I would look at the speakers and amp first. You need to listen if you can to a few different ones, even if they are outside budget, so you at least have an idea of whats possible.
I really do sympathise on this one, it's taken me years to get the sound I truly like.
Using the NAD and Sony as a transport limits any mods really.
You need a major change not very small "differences" I think.
Regards Karl

[Bernhard]

JBL "TI" sounds like they have metal dome tweeters.

You will always hear the metal resonances...

[Vicca Tito 2]

Yes I coudn not agree more.
But say, if one would go one step at a time it would change the system gradually. Denon and valve amp are good enough for me. I though I was on a right track when I recently bought JBLs (after hearing them which was relatively satisfying), only after some time a mild harshness in heghts appears as troublesome.
But what speakers to consider in this case, I am certainly aware of downsides of JBLs? (although they have a large voluminous and precise timely bass)

[Mooly]

Hi Viktor,
It's a tough one this, only you know what sounds right for you. In my case I settled on B&W703's after a lot of listening, as soon as I heard these I knew straight away this was the sound for me. I use a MOSFET amp of my own design and a tweaked Micromega Stage 2 player.