It’s rare that a given component performs 100% in a given setup rightaway
If you’re adding a new component to an existing setup to replace another, chances are that it won’t fit right in. This is not odd and easily explainable, but nevertheless an often underestimated problem.
It may be a mistake to disapprove of a new component right away when finding that it sounds nothing like the component that it’s replaced. Many audio components have a certain character and they may like different cables, a different setup or even different companion components. In practice, I’ve experienced very often that a given CD player just performs substandard with a given (pre) amplifier while performing totally synergistically with another. Therefore, if a component doesn’t sound right, it may not be a terrible component but it may well simply be a mismatch.
Try different cables first. Interlinks are easy and well-working compensation tools to offset flaws that exist elsewhere in the system. An example. You may already have tried to compensate for the sogginess of your old CD player with a very bright and fast interlink without knowing it, and now that you’ve got that new cd player, the sound may appear thin or harsh in comparison.
Also try different powercables, they really do make a difference. You can even try to experiment with the phase and position in the extensionblock.
Maybe the component likes to be on spiked cones instead of the soft rubbery feet that it came with. Maybe you have to relocate your speakers, more forward if the sound is too relaxed, or more backwards if the sound is too much in your face. Taking them apart a little (sidewall clearance allowing) also helps a lot in reducing an overly bright or forward sound. Or you may have to borrow a different amp from a friend to see what that does. Just experiment. If you’ve tried to really accommodate the new component and the sound still isn’t to your liking, well then it may well be the wrong component for you.
