Hello --
I'm looking to upgrade my stereo system. I listen exclusively through headphones (don't even own a pair of speakers), and almost exclusively to classical (10th century - 21st century), although I have the complete Beatles and Buddy Holly sets on CD.
Current components include Onkyo TX 8511 receiver (100 watts/channel), Sennheiser 595 phones, Marantz CC4001 (5-cd changer), and Marantz VC6001 (5-dvd changer, for my opera dvds). I also use the Grado 15' headphone extension cable.
I'm perfectly satisfied with the Marantz changers, but would like if possible to improve the overall sound quality/clarity/sensual appeal of the music by replacing receiver and phones. I like the sound and comfort of the Senn 595's, so my first impulse is to invest in Senn 650's. I was also considering the Marantz PM8004 amplifier, but am starting to wonder if money would be better spent on a headphone amp instead. My problem is that I know absolutely nothing about them.
Specific concerns:
1. I'm old enough to have a little arthritis, so I really like having a remote for source switching and volume control to save wear and tear on my knees. It doesn't look like either one is possible with a headphone amp. Can the headphone amp be patched in between phones and receiver to allow volume and source control with the receiver's remote? Or would that degrade the signal quality?
2. I'm a little worried about revealing TOO much detail, i.e., imperfections in recordings. I have a number of early stereo performances (1954-1960) and love the richness of the sound. My goal is to preserve or improve the illusion of reality.
Any and all thoughts from more knowledgeable folks would be appreciated. Thanks in advance for your help!
