First 'real' system - where can I improve?

[Benjib]

After years of the thrift store and the used equipment game (which I do love), I've finally invested/indulged in a new NAD D 3020, new Monitor Audio Bronze 2 Speakers, pairing with my old Realistic Lab-400/AT CN5725AL cartridge via a new Phono Solutions PS1. Stream Tidal from a Pc to a new Google Chromecast audio which is connected to the NAD via optical. Old 12 gauge OFC cables, bi wired. -- So excited to finally have what I'd call my first system with curated 'value' components save for the TT which I found years ago curb side, it is good enough to carry forward (and boy, do I ever love the way it sounds AND looks, gerogeous.) It and the basic cables are the only items that aren't new. So I'm very happy. All high value components, especially with the deals I found - making good values exceptional values. I love always looking for the next piece, but I feel I'm pretty good all around- for the first time ever. Where would you put your next bit of cash?

 

[Benjib]

I have tried biwire and it is a waste of extra wire. Just make sure you have just good speaker cable and be done.

A better DAC or a better TT is where I would start.

I've been in love with this TT since the day I found it years ago on a cold, wet fall day sitting on the side of a street just starting to get rained upon. I quickly dried it's freshly wet surfaces and raced it home. After cleaning it as a whole and replacing the cartridge/stylus, I knew I'd never let it go. It was beautiful and in fantastic condition. Maybe it's how it became to be mine, or that it was my very first TT (many have come and gone including a few technics and pioneer models), maybe it's how much I love the way it looks, or simply how good it sounds. I don't think this could ever not be my primary table. You might be interested to know it's often been described as a 'sleeper' and 'under appreciated' and fetches hundreds of dollars on the vintage market these days. Maybe I could upgrade the cartridge, it's got very few hours on it but I could easily keep it as a back-up.

 

[savatage1973]

Unless you are going to spend some serious money on a table (moving the decimal point a notch or two), NEVER get rid of that table. As you mentioned, they are desirable and real "workhorses". If you have the itch to spend some money, I'd invest in a new cart and/or some good record cleaning equipment. A thoroughly cleaned record sounds light years different than a dirty one.