Two Huge Stereo Equipment Upgrades & How I Built My Dream System

In this video, I show and discuss two recent stereo equipment upgrades. I also take you through time and discuss the stereo equipment journey that I have been on for the last 10 years. I started from very humble beginnings and have been slowly building an incredible (in my opinion) stereo equipment set up.
Are my new upgrades working out? Am I happy with the results? Find out as I share my thoughts and opinions in this video.
Just a reminder that you can still use code "Melinda10" to receive 10 percent off of your purchases from the GrooveWasher website. GrooveWasher creates great products for cleaning your vinyl records as well as the cutest music label designed drink coasters I have ever seen. Here is the link for more information about GrooveWasher products.
www.groovewasher.com/
#VinylCommunity #MelindaMurphy #VinylCollection #RecordCollection #MoFiSourcepoint10 #Rega

[@mkfmkf55]

Great system. The mistake that audiophiles often make is not simply enjoying their systems. The upgrade bug can become a never ending quest for perfect sound.

[@lakeoffrost4069]

Yup! Good gear and synergy can bring u closer to the music but at the end of the day... its all about the music

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree! I'm grateful for my husband. He lets me follow my dreams but keeps me grounded. Lol. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@semperfi-1918]

Its amazing from when you start to where you go. The sky is the limit. Im still tweaking my systems. Yes you heard that right systems. I have a few that i will never part with. And others that are getting well used. One setup is to go with the movies. The other side is for audio. Also learning how the system works with my house amd room. Magnavox seems to follow me the most. I do have a marantz 2230 i got free. Needs alot of tlc. Including the recapping. To each their own and its part of the journey. 😊

[@Kowinaida]

What?? True audiophiles don't pursue "perfect sound" because that's not a thing. What is your system?

[@conchobar]

People who get lost in the upgrade cycle do so because they either can't afford their dream system or can't fit their dream system into their lifestyle. It is a hobby, and if it were just about the music, they would cease to be an audiophile, and just a music lover.

[@GoldenPegasus97]

Greating from Egypt. Great system, I just updated my system this year too excapt the speakers. I like your speakers choice. Thank for such a lovely video. Enjoy it

[@MelindaMurphy]

Congrats on your upgrades. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@rondickinson8741]

It is truly amazing how much emotion good music through a good system will release from your soul

[@MelindaMurphy]

This is definitely true! ♥️ It's an amazing experience. Thank you and take care.

[@edwinmarcano6741]

Hi Melinda. I am so glad you are enjoying your audio enthusiast journey. You are doing great. As a matter of fact, you are becoming a full fledged audiophile right in front of our eyes! Thank you for sharing your journey.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much! I truly appreciate it. 🤗♥️ Take care.

[@MyNameIsAndrewLuce]

Hi Melinda! I love your channel. My favorite part about watching you is hearing your stories. I love music and I love the stories behind the music. I love to see others as passionate about music as I am. Keep making videos and I will keep watching!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you for the kind words. Like you, the enjoyment is in knowing why an album means so much to someone. I love the stories behind the music too. Have a great day!

[@HansDelbruck53]

Nice to see a woman doing an audio equipment review on KZbin for a change, especially one who knows her stuff. Love your album choices, too. Hope you'll do more in the future.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Wow! Thank you so much! ♥️🤗

[@HansDelbruck53]

@@MelindaMurphy You're welcome. Go Vols!

[@larryhoffman7471]

What a wonderful story of your journey! You look for what’s important, being moved by the music. You have a terrific system. You deserve it.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much! I appreciate it. ♥️🤗 Take care.

[@mortimersnerd1348]

First time watching your channel. I'm 65 years old now and I've been a collector of vinyl, then when they went out of fashion, collected CD's, then when they fell out of fashion, progressed to storing my entire library of music as flac files on external hard drives. I understand the nostalgic appeal to vinyl, but can't see myself ever going back. The clicks and pops drove me nuts! I have gone strictly electronic and glad I did. Still enjoy music produced from my youth and my parents era, and the quality is outstanding over my current rig. Sometimes you have to go through a few hardware pieces to get the synergy right, but once you do, the emotional connection can be revisited time and again. Listening to music is what brings me great joy and helps to transport me to better times and experiences long past.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I understand what you mean about the clicks and pops. One thing I was careful of when starting my collection was avoiding scratched records when possible. The Dire Straits record was a very early purchase and unfortunately it's pretty noisy. At the same time, the music is gorgeous. I think it's great to have so many choices now. We can listen to great music however we want. ♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@boristahmasian9604]

First time watching the channel too. I am about your age also. My wife wanted a record player. So last Christmas I got her a turntable and we started collecting vinyl. By now we have about 30 of them. The initial novelty wore off and now we listen to Spotify a lot. I too have an extensive CD collection. I have a friend in Boston who listens to records only. His set up is very basic. I think my receiver costs more than his entire set up (record player, amplifier and two bookshelf speakers) I think it is about enjoying music not so much the tech. I got sucked into the upgrade game too but had to stop at some point due to cost. I am totally happy with my system. I have had musician friends comment on how good my system sounds. The records are so expensive these days. the 30 or so records we have purchased so far, far exceed the cost of the basic record player and the Schiit Mani 2 pre amp I bought for better sound.

[@ddotcdot6892]

@@MelindaMurphy- true, avoid scratched pieces and take good care of them... but most importantly RINSE AND CLEAN YOUR VINYLS REGULARLY. Very important.

[@leonardoiglesias2394]

Absolute perfect philosophy. Music is the thing, sound, not the object.

[@Phil-pq4ks]

​@@MelindaMurphyit's all part of the experience with having minor pops, clicks. He's wrong. The compression that MP3, digital suffers is unbearable. Nothing can ever truly get rid of it.

[@thomashowe5256]

Melinda, I am really impressed the progression you have made in your system. Well done. In just 10 years. It’s a journey most of us have been on. I have a Linn LP 12 for 30 years now and there have been a ton of upgrades available each better than the last; your tonearm and cartridge with the phono preamplier would have added a lot; it must seem like you have a whole new record collection!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you for the kind words. You are absolutely bright. Everything sounds better. ♥️ It took 10 years but I am very grateful for it all. Take care.

[@EskWIRED]

I loved hearing about the journey you took. And the fact that you ended up in such a good place with such solid quality equipment makes it all worth it.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much! ♥️🤗

[@andrewmacdonald3667]

Congratulations. I’ve often wondered if you had a system to match the many jewels in your collection. And now you certainly do!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Yes! Thank you!♥️🤗

[@mlblue5355]

Congratulations on your upgrades! It’s always fun putting new or different gear into the mix. Yes, the emotional connection with the music is amazing, and that just brings you so much closer. I’m happy that you’re now experiencing time travel. And that you can join the artists in the studio while they’re recording. It’s fun huh?

[@MelindaMurphy]

Haha! The sad truth is that Dylan would have thrown out of the recording studio. Lol. Anyway, I'm very happy with my choices. Thank you and take care.

[@troytaylor6160]

Thank you so much for sharing your path to sonic bliss. It made me think of all the used gear I had purchased and my path I had to go through as a young person with little funds. So glad you are enjoying your journey through the audiophile world. It has been a huge part of my life and you could even say a small part of a Time Machine. Thank you again! Love your channel

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much! I love the stereo equipment I have today but I have appreciated the entire journey. Take care. 🤗♥️

[@ericjensen9091]

Thank you for sharing your hifi journey with us! I love your passion for music and living in general. 🙂

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much! 🤗♥️

[@rc2257]

It's great to hear a fellow audiophile and music enthusiast's journey, thanks for sharing! I'm also enjoying reading the stories that many of your subscribers are leaving here in the comments. We are definitely a community, and it's great to share about our experiences! I took a 30-year break from vinyl collecting when CDs were all the rage. Got back into vinyl in 2015. Got a great starter audiophile system. Started upgrading one component every year or two. Every upgrade has been terrific. Now I have a P8 with Ania Pro (I'll upgrade to the Apheta 3 next), a worthy integrated amp, and KEF R3 Metas in gorgeous walnut. The system makes my ears soooo happy. Take care, and see you in the next video!

[@MelindaMurphy]

You have an amazing set up. ♥️ I have also enjoyed reading all of the amazing comments about the vinyl community members stereo equipment. Thank you and take care.

[@larrydrozd2740]

I still have all my original, bought in 1982, Pioneer "champagne" series equipment. PL-L800 table, A-9 Amp, F-9 receiver, CT7-R Cassette, RQ-9 Dynamic Processor, SG-9 EQ and HPM-900 Speakers. These were not cheap in 1982! But they were the top stuff from Pioneer back then and still sound amazing today. I've been listening to this system for so long its basically my reference for everything.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I don't know what you paid but it's safe to say you got your money's worth. ♥️🤗 Very nice!

[@stevenbouler5783]

Another really fun video, Melinda! I’m about to go on the stereo upgrade journey myself, and these videos are inspirational. Thanks again!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Have fun! Best wishes to you! ♥️🤗 Thank you and take care!

[@Jamko1970]

Congratulations on the new speakers! Always exciting getting new equipment. After a year I’m still excited and enjoy my Sonus Faber Amati G5 speakers. They are a work of art and sound incredible. They could be my last pair, only time will tell lol.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Congratulations! You have a great set of speakers. ♥️🔥 Thank you and take care.

[@bensellers80]

So exciting to hear you talk about your amazing equipment. I bet it sounds outstanding. How lucky to have that luxury! Music can bring such strong emotion and it's so cool you have equipment to help elevate that feeling. Great video as always Melinda. Enjoy!

[@MelindaMurphy]

I'm very grateful. 🤗 Thank you very much!

[@jimgardner5129]

Thank you for sharing your journey with us. I greatly enjoyed it.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much! 😀♥️

[@brianlewis5042]

This has been a fun journey to watch how your collection and equipment has progressed over time. Enjoy all of the that which your upgrades bring. I sure there may be something else you will upgrade in the future but until then, you and Philip enjoy the music.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much! I really appreciate it. 😀♥️

[@genestatler2514]

I just now found your channel Melinda and am very impressed with your audio journey. And especially the way you articulate your feelings, not only for the music, but also for the experience of the audio equipment. I'm an old guy now , but I still very much enjoy good music and fine audio equipment like I used to have. Oh yes, I did subscribe. All the best from Gene in Tennessee.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much. Your kind words really mean a lot. This has been a wonderful journey. Take care. 🤗♥️

[@sidvicious3129]

Melinda, I'm so proud of you and your husband. He supports your endeavors, and one of the things that I love is that you are doing this at your pace without pressure. This is how it should be done. As you upgrade, it is almost a never-ending cycle, but I have always done it at my pace like you have. My last upgrade was a Hana ML moving coil cartridge, which was the icing on the cake and made my hard work worth it. As you move up, you hear more of what the artist intended, and it brings you more into the music and the emotional impact and the expression that you will now feel will sometimes bring you to tears, if the music puts you into a space if a loved one who is no longer hear, like a parent, relative or very good friend. I bought my cartridge from Music Direct. The bad thing Melinda is, you will be out shopping for better pressing of albums that you own for the reasons that you mentioned. That cartridge was my missing link, and yes, I get goose bumps and envelope in the music like never before. I just upgraded my phono stage last year.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you for the kind words. My husband is amazing. He supports me but he also keeps me in check. Stereo Equipment is expensive and it's good to have balance which he helps provide. Lol. Music can be so moving. ♥️ The cartridge is extremely important. Good for you. ♥️🤗 Thank you and take care.

[@vinylrules4838]

Congrats on your upgrades! Taking a playback system to the next level is such a joy. Happy listening. 🙂

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much! ♥️🤗

[@brianmoore581]

Congratulations on your system upgrades! I share your love of music, but my preferred format is SACD. I like regular CDs, records, and even cassette tapes, too. My system has been a work in progress since I was 16. I'm 51 now. I'm finally in a position to make a major improvement. I can't wait!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you. It sounds like you are a fan of many formats which is very cool. I don't have any SACD's but have always been very curious about them . It does take a long time to build a great system but it sure is a lot of fun along the way. Take care.

[@richardblayneamerican8149]

So happy for you that your system is complete. I own a pair of Klipsch Forte speakers from the mid 80's that deliver that "goosebump"-inducing sound you describe. I'm also very happy with my Pro-ject turntable and Ortofon 2m Bronze cartridge, connected to a Macintosh Phono preamp. I use a Yamaha receiver and would like to upgrade that piece of the puzzle! But I do get great quality sound as it is. It's exciting when you finally achieve that 'perfect' sound that you and you alone can truly appreciate! I recently replaced all the speakers in my car stereo and I agree with you that the intro to 'Eye In The Sky' is one of my favorite pieces of music to listen to -especially when it plays on Sirius XM in the car. Goosebumps for sure! Take care.

[@MelindaMurphy]

You have an amazing set up. ♥️ That Alan Parsons album is fantastic. Thank you and take care.

[@americana1544]

Wow ! You're sharing so much great information on your choices of recordings and your superb audio system. Thanks !! Very impressive speakers - excellent choices all around.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much! ♥️🤗

[@mahabkhatib9377]

Congratulations Melinda and I hope you enjoy your lovely audio system! My journey started over 30 years ago so I’m pretty much done w/ upgrades, maybe some little changes or addition to the rack under the turntable, since it does affect the sound a lot, but nothing major. I might add another tonearm w/ a true mono cartridge, but that can be done later. Room acoustic and good source of clean power help a lot, but I already did that part. I’m so happy for you that you got the support of your family, that part isn’t easy. We really need more ladies like you to encourage this hobby so everyone can enjoy it.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you very much! I'm nearly done with upgrades and am content to enjoy what I have as well. Have a great night!

[@suprememusicmaster]

Melinda, you continue to inspire us! Thanks for being so open and honest and sharing your journey! Records are addictive, aren’t they?

[@MelindaMurphy]

They sure are. ♥️🤗 Thank you and take care.

[@livinaftermidnight9651]

2 years or so ago, I went searching for a replacement 2 channel amp/pre amp to replace my Anthem AVM30 surround pre amp. I ended up getting a fantastic deal on a MICHI P5/S5 combo. Those showed me how much I need to do a speaker upgrade. The front runners are Sonus Faber Sonetto VIII's, but that's not likely to happen until next year. Glad you enjoy your upgrades. Hopefully your set for a while!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Best of luck on your search for the right speakers. ♥️ I think we are probably set for a while. Thank you and take care.

[@lolo672]

I feel as though i am on a similar journey. I also tried to rescue equipment and then slowly upgraded from my home theater hybrid amp, then turntable, and speakers last. I think you have it right when you say it’s about the emotional connection to the music. Sound quality improvement becomes a compelling force, and then with that first listen where it all comes together, it’s just takes your breath away. Love your channel as another woman also down this road.

[@MelindaMurphy]

You know exactly what I'm talking about. Each step of the way, the sound just gets better and better. It's been such a fun journey. I love hearing from another woman. We are rare around here. Lol. Thank you and take care.

[@ericwong5004]

Hello Melinda! Thank you for sharing your journey into upgrading your audio play back system. You have a great system. The most important part of this hobby in my opinion is enjoying the system that you already have and it can be an endless rabbit hole by chasing the "perfect" sound. Anyhow take care and enjoy spinning those records that you have.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much! 🤗♥️

[@AndyG11774]

Congratulations Melinda, I've heard nothing but great things about that speaker. What a tremendous system you have now!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Wow! Thank you so much! ♥️🤗

[@johnnyz4427]

Audiophile and vinyl connecting are mostly men's world. As a record collector/audiophile since I was at my high school, I admire you, a true woman hero and idol of a record collector. Love to hear you talking about "stereo, the equipment, sonic quality, great finds, and etc". I feel the audiophile world is complete now. Keep going Malisa!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much! 🤗♥️

[@MarvinHartmann452]

The part when she's talking about shopping for records with her daughter is very relatable because I did it so many times with my own daughter. But you're right, that universe is a man's world, but some women did like that a lot.

[@matldn2697]

My best friend is a budding audiophile and an amazing women.

[@johnnyz4427]

Apologize to write your name wrong, sorry Melinda. @@MelindaMurphy

[@MelindaMurphy]

@@johnnyz4427 I appreciate that. Don't worry about it. I make little mistakes all of the time. It was no big deal. Have a great day. 😀

[@geraldtanderson9044]

I've experienced everything you say in regards to hearing music in a very clear, new and exciting way. That experience came way back in 1978, with my new Phase Linear Sound equipment and Advent Loudspeakers. The sound was incredible! My 65 year old friend at the time, who was well versed in musical equipment and had a keen ear for sound (being an organist), said he had never heard anything like it. The speakers are encased in walnut cabinets, so I know what you're saying about a warm feel to them and looking like a fine piece of furniture. By the way, the system still works perfectly to this day and still sounds great. Purchasing quality stereo equipment is the best investment anyone who loves listening to music could ever do.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree, it's a great investment and you prove that. After all this time, you still have that prized equipment. ♥️🤗 Thank you and take care.

[@diannecarpenter7718]

Wow!! Thank you, Melinda, I really enjoyed watching and listening to this video. *Glad you have a great listening room. Take Care. 🎤🎸🎵🎹🥁

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you Dianne! 🤗♥️

[@RocknRonni]

Rega Aria fantastic and I've heard a lot of good things about those mobile fidelity speakers really highly rated. so now you hear what I'm talking about when I say the music gave me goosebumps. For me this happens most of the time when I acquire a record I know really well. And now it is an AP or a MOFI, a really superior sounding record. I think because I'm familiar with the way it's supposed to sound and then this new record is so revealing it's an emotional event. and I love it. That's what HiFi's all about that magic in the music. Thanks Melinda, really enjoyed the video and to hear about your journey. 😊

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much Ron. I hope you know how much I admire you and your wisdom. The goosebumps are real and they don't lie. 🤗♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@TommyT6219]

Wow, awesome upgrades, Melinda! Congratulations! The SourcePoint 10’s are really good looking speakers! I haven’t had a chance to hear them yet, but from what I hear, they sound pretty stunning! P.S. I love the old console stereos!

[@MelindaMurphy]

I like their retro style and they sound wonderful. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@danijelsan81]

Yes, the journey makes it sweeter and more rewarding. Happy to hear you’re enjoying the music your system delivers.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I definitely am. Thank you so much! ♥️🤗

[@RickF-dw8cl]

Good for you. You deserve it for all the good information you have provided over these many months.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you! I appreciate that so much. 🥰

[@Rick_Schott]

I love that your husband is supportive of your hobby. If you saw the speakers and tuner I'm running right now you would be rolling laughing and I wouldn't even mind... yet I'm having a great time and upgrades are in process :) Growing up my pops had a Zenith Allegro that looked a lot like your mother's console. That thing had some POWER! Took two big guys to move it tho 😂

[@MelindaMurphy]

I have truly enjoyed all of the stereo equipment (with the exception of that all in one lol) every step of the way. ♥️ I started from humble beginnings and that is part of the fun. I'm so glad to hear you have the same mindset when it comes to this exciting hobby. ♥️🤗 Thank you and take care.

[@louismartinez7387]

Congratulations Melinda feeling the music IS what it's all about!!!...ENJOY

[@sexytasmin]

Very nice system Melinda. My favourite album of all time and one that gives me goosebumps is Mike Rutherford’s “Smallcreeps Day” On some of the tracks it is like being in heaven. A fantastic album.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you for sharing that. I appreciate the suggestion. Take care.

[@williamsmith9194]

Exceptional . You moved me so much. Thats been my life long quest to get equipment for audio like that

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you very much. ♥️🤗

[@seano218]

Nice upgrade and great journey! I never understood how people can invest sooo much into their vinyl collection and hardly anything into a sub standard audio system that doesn't even give them all the sonic benefits of vinyl. You don't have to spend a lot, just make smart choices, audition gear, know your preferences and your room and placement. What a great story on your journey, when gear speaks to you, you know! Two recommendations I would say to you, upgrade the sub next to a REL, Rythmik or HSU. I like my REL at how well it blends for music. The other is, look at a tube preamp for your phono. That's some next level air, dimensionality, warmth and the benefit of changing out just the tubes to get a different sound. Thanks for sharing, dig the videos and honesty! Take care as well.

[@gregkoblentz7872]

Agree on all points. I like Rythmik, once you go servo there's no going back

[@MelindaMurphy]

You are speaking my language. The next upgrade will most likely be a REL subwoofer or two. After that, I may look into a tube preamp. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@jackmead742]

If you want a great tube preamp I highly recommend the supratek Chardonnay. It is hand built to order from Australia. It literally transformed my system. I had to wait for it but it is immersive and just plain fun. It will raise the goosebumps factor by a factor of ten. Nice turntable. Regas are fantastic. Im using a VPI prime with a audiotechnica art 9. The phono stage is a ps audio stellar. The sound i get from vinyl shocks the uninitiated. Keep spinning!!

[@jazzlouise]

Melinda yes the front end to me is probably the most important element in a system. Rega makes excellent equipment and I think the speakers are also an area to focus on. Of course amplification plays an important role but I have found the front end (source and pre amp) and back end have always been areas I have focused on.

[@MelindaMurphy]

At some point, I may replace some of the other equipment but as of right now, I'm very happy with how everything sounds. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@jazzlouise]

@@MelindaMurphyyes it's about balancing the whole system and there are many integrated amplifiers that are really excellent. As mentioned it's very tempting to chase the equipment and get distracted from the main point which is enjoying the music.

[@user-ex9zm7bg3x]

I agree. Nothing downstream can improve the source.

[@craigd7738]

Fun video! Congrats on your system. Enjoy

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you very much! ♥️🤗

[@fidelios_frequency]

Congrats on your upgrades. Hope you enjoy them for many years to come. I too am looking to upgrade my turntable and was considering the Rega P8 as well. Thanks for sharing your journey and the personal stories.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I can only say positive things about my Rega P8. I'm very happy with it paired with the Apheta 3 cartridge. Thank you and take care.

[@raywoods2132]

Hey Melinda, Love your videos, your presentation & all is just great! I Wish my spouse supported me & My Hobby like your spouse does. Yes, now that you have a high end system you have come to the realization that with greater fidelity, comes the amplification of all the snap, crackles & pops! When I Got into this a few years ago as well, my journey was similar to yours, I was not as particular in the condition of the vinyl, but as my system improved, I hated hearing all the artifacts that where not supposed to be there, so I became very persnickety when buying vinyl. I always wonder what the record store employee thinks of that weird guy inspecting all the vinyl when shopping. LOL! I work to hard for my money to buy crappy vinyl! I Do not know about your experience, however, I Have found that at least 25% of the new vinyl that I buy has some kind of defect & I Send it back for a replacement, & there have been times it has taken a couple replacements to get a good one. Very disappointed in some of the manufacturers these days. Anyway, Enjoy that new system, It will serve you well for many years. I do look forward to the day when technology allows us to virtually visit other peoples music rooms, that will be so cool. as for me, I am content with my Vintage gear; 1- Fully restored Kenwood KR9600, Empire Troubadour 596 MKII TT & Technics SL1600 TT, Teac 3300S R2R, Klipsch Forte II's & Klipsch KG4's restored with Crites Cross overs & Titanium tweeters. SPIN ON!

[@geraldtanderson9044]

I like the sound of your vintage gear. Some quality stereo equipment. I was a very picky album buyer in the 1970's, having returned many albums back to the Record Store due to warpage or excessive noise. I'm still that way, but it's paid off through the years, as I can still listen to those same albums from the 70's and they still sound great! Even though I partied with them, I was the only one who handled the records, so that helped with their longevity. One thing though, when it comes to listening to music in general, I don't have a problem with noisy old 78rpms from the 20's, 30's, 40's etc. I grew up listening to noisy music, scratchy 45's, barely audible AM Radio stations playing noisy music, etc. Nobody paid much mind to how records were handled back then. I doubt young people today could listen to it, being they have what I call "sanitized ears".

[@raywoods2132]

I totally get it Gerold, I remember listening to my parents 45's & Such in the 60's with all the Snap, Crackle & Pop, & That I think began my musical journey. Although I never really was exposed to the 78's, except when my aunt who had a antique victrola would play some of those, & hey, that was High Tech back in the day so it was totally acceptable, sort of like AM radio Still, LOL! God Bless! @@geraldtanderson9044

[@Clyde177]

A woman audiophile? No, it can't be. I'm so happy.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Haha! Thank you! 🤗♥️

[@janinapalmer8368]

I'm another one 😂..!!

[@Josianne-Music]

Why not? 😅 we love it ❤😊

[@stephenbarr2735]

Thank you for sharing your journey. So many of us have journies of evolution as we build our systems. I am more into vintage equipment but I love hearing about new electronics as well. There is something very special about the moment you add a component or two that creates an undeniable synergy. Cheers!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you! I am a fan of vintage and modern equipment. ♥️ This journey has been fun. I have learned a lot and enjoyed the music at every stage. Have a great evening. Take care.

[@JJ-no2ob]

Great video Melinda ! Thanks for sharing your audio journey. 😊

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much! 🤗♥️

[@twofromthetrunk9932]

That console stereo was a focal point when my wife and we’re just dating. It was a Magnavox with great sound. It even had aux inputs, her brother hooked up his cassette player to it. It was fantastic. Being very poor we didn’t go out much, so playing records and playing pinochle was our date night. What great memories. One year before we were married (1975) I bought a Sansui receiver and speaker and a turntable. I still use the receiver and speakers to this day. I actually have two stereos and three turntables that I listen to. Thank you for an enjoyable video.

[@MelindaMurphy]

What great memories! Sitting around listening to records sounds like the perfect date to me. ♥️🤗 Thank you for sharing that with me. Take care.

[@edyoung6573]

Wow Beautiful system and listening room, Thinking it's time for me to upgrade my turntable. Boy Melinda you sure have come a long way! Big thumbs up! Love that Steppenwolf album as well when you showed the walk-through! Boy what a collection you have! Great choice on speakers!! I love Mofi equipment.

[@MelindaMurphy]

It took only 10 years to get there. Lol. Thank you. I'm so grateful. Thank you and take care.

[@sayers1984]

Hi Melinda glad your enjoying your upgrades, I bought the aria some months back and agree it sounds amazing so much insight and dynamics and real. 😊

[@MelindaMurphy]

Definitely! I'm so glad we bought it. Thank you and take care.

[@NosEL34]

Great video and content, truly enjoyed it. First time seeing one of your videos.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you very much! ♥️🤗

[@nothingimportant4504]

Very cool! It’s fun to hear stories of people in the real world talking about their system upgrades. It’s hard to watch some of those videos of big high-fi audio because I watch it and think, “ I could never justify spending that much money to listen to music.” Its great to see people like you talk about great gear that is reasonable and produces great results.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I really appreciate your kind words. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@dmnddog7417]

I fully agree with you that appearance counts. My listening room is also my living room, so it was also important to me that the speakers and components were visually pleasing as well as performant. I live in an apartment, so size, performance (for the money) and visual appearance were very important factors in choosing my audio equipment as well. I think we all do it in stages the way you did it. Great job!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you and I agree. There is a lot of great stereo equipment that looks and functions great. Thank you and take care.

[@PGHJR002]

WOW! What a jump, from mid to hi-fi, good for you.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much! 🤗♥️

[@thoronmetal108]

Great video…great journey…enjoy your system. Fantastic choices.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you very much. ♥️🤗

[@leonsam12]

Very cool and fun exciting moment!! Congratulations!! Also that story is very sweet and cool, enjoy your new speakers Let’s Go!!!😎🤘

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thanks so much! ♥️🤗

[@mcfabb]

Superb! The joy of music is, as you say, deeply moving at times and goosebumping with pleasure. I am so glad that you have given all the subscribers ( and others ) an authentic insight into your audio appreciation journey. As with a lot of other areas of collecting, which are passionate , there are a lot of folks who get so bogged down with equipment and technical issues. I think it is so important to listen attentively to the source material as accurately reproduced as possible and vinyl undoubtedly has a unique character and ambience. For instance, I was streaming some Paul Simon songs on Tidal, while I was working and the FLAC files sounded great. However, I got the vinyl album ‘There Goes Rhymin’ Simon’ out of it’s sleeve and gave it a spin. Immediately, it came alive and was engaging in a way the streaming FLAC wasn’t. American Tune is a standout track, but it’s a really good album overall. It’s funny that you mentioned emotional engagement and response to music. Only a few days ago I was moved to tears, listening to a song which had a great vocal performance. When an artist is genuine and real in their delivery, they inhabit the emotion of the song and the music and words together pack the punch. Often there are singers who are technically adept and they treat songs like athletes might approach gymnastics, but it is all show and devoid of emotional depth. Nerina Pallot achieved something great with her song ‘Sophia’ on the album ‘Fires’ ( it is getting a new release on vinyl soon )That is deeply moving. ‘It Starts’ on her album The Graduate is a stunner too. I was in pieces when I saw her do it live. I am in the process of upgrading my turntable and I am considering the Rega P8. Best wishes!

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree. A singer can be great but if they don't deliver the song with some emotion, it's hard to feel a connection. I need to pick up that Paul Simon album. Thank you for your suggestions. 🤗♥️ Take care.

[@arichison]

Great looking new speakers! And those stands are awesome!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you! I'm glad they made speakers specifically with these speakers in mind. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@therealglennthebaker]

Wow, I can't believe how similar our stories are. It started in 2013 for me, too. Everything from the retro all in one stereo, the old school console, my 1st quality turntable with bookshelf speakers to my current, which is a Fluance RT 85 N w/ Nagaoka MP110 cartridge. Great story, great video, great system, Melinda 👍🏻.

[@MelindaMurphy]

That's so cool. I have enjoyed the entire journey. ♥️🤗 Thank you and take care.

[@map856]

Congratulations Melinda on a truly great sound system. It’s clear you really appreciate not just good music but good sound. It makes sense for a person who invests so much on a record collection to invest into a sound system that allows the best possible musical experience. Well done. Greetings from Australia 😊

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much! I really appreciate it. 🤗♥️

[@john32son]

It's great to see someone who loves two-channel audio as much I do!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you very much! ♥️🤗

[@carstentuschinski6680]

Great channel! Thank you for your videos. I'm always looking forward to the next one. Greetings from Berlin, Germany

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you very much! ♥️🤗

[@scottbull8309]

Wow !!! Exquisite! , saaweeeet. Love the story of your journey and your current set up , thank you for sharing!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much! 🤗♥️

[@matta9316]

You have a very warm and welcoming smile. Great vid love your enthusiasm!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you very much! 😀❤️

[@alanlough638]

I'm so happy for your upgrades on buying new stereo equipment and that you are happy with the great sound quality with the upgrades. As for me, I still have my vintage 2 channel stereo equipment. Yes, over the years I have had my stereo equipment serviced a small number of times. I'm still very happy with all of my vintage stereo equipment. I'm old school and 61 years old, as I'm going to be 62 this year in November. I still love playing my records on my Realistic Lab 420 Turntable, as it plays records flawlessly. Land sakes I was a Freshman in high school when my uncle bought the Turntable for me, as he bought all of my stereo equipment for me. As a teenager I didn't have the money to buy the stereo equipment that I have. My stereo equipment, is from the early 1970s to 1983. As I stated, I have had my stereo equipment serviced a small number of times over the years, but I wouldn't trade any of my stereo equipment for newer equipment. When I play my Genesis The Way We Walk Live Volumes 1 and 2 records, I relive the memories of going to the old Three Rivers Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA to see Genesis in concert. I had front row seats at the show. This Genesis tour was the band's The Way We Walk Tour 1992--1993. Genesis Is my favorite band, and I was listening to the band when I was in grade school, which of course is during the Peter Gabriel Era. I was also listening to The Beatles and Yes when I was in grade school. I live in a 1 bedroom apartment and my vintage 2 Channel stereo equipment, is in my living room. My tv set is in my bedroom, with my Pioneer home theater system. I have big DVD collection and I watch my DVD movies on my Pioneer home theater system. My Pioneer AV receiver, is a complete package, with both front and rear surround speakers, subwoofer, and center channel speaker for the dialog. I'll admit, I do have a newer Turntable in my bedroom, that's hooked up to my Pioneer AV receiver. I have an Audio Technica ATLP60X Turntable. It's a fully automatic Turntable, just like my Realistic Lab 420 Turntable. Though, my vintage Realistic Turntable is a direct drive model, as my Audio Technica Turntable, a is belt drive model. Both Turntables have mm cartridges. My vintage Realistic Lab 420 Turntable, has the original Shure mm cartridge, which is the cartridge that came from the factory with the Turntable. I was able to buy on ebay, the EXACT Shure mm cartridge for my vintage Realistic Lab 420 Turntable. There was a seller on ebay, that has replacement cartridges and parts for vintage Realistic stereo equipment. So, I have 2 original Shure mm cartridges for my Realistic vintage Turntable. The original cartridge ALONE retailed for $80 dollars when the Realistic Lab 420 Turntable hit Radio Shack's store shelves in the 1970s. So, yes the Turntable is over 40 years old, and going strong. I take excellent care of my vintage stereo equipment. Take care, Alan.

[@MelindaMurphy]

It's so great to hear your stories. Your stereo equipment is good and sentimental. That's fantastic! It's great that you can relive that magical concert when listening to the music. ♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@johnbrender7635]

Great story of your journey. I also started with a Zenith Console my Grandmother gave to me when I was 13. It’s sounded excellent. My new journey started 25 years later in 2004 I picked up a pair of working Magnepan speakers for $50 but didn’t have a receiver or turntable. Since then I’ve had many iterations and ended up with a Sherwood HP 2000 integrated amp, Thorens TD 160 turntable and JBL L100’s that I built myself (Cabinet, crossovers, and all reconed original drivers) pulled from and rescued from the previous abusive owner. Started rebuilding my record collection in 2015. At about 100 plus currently

[@MelindaMurphy]

Wow! Very impressive. Magnepan speakers are great. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@craigenputtock]

So nice to see your enthusiasm for music, one of the great gifts of life.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Couldn't agree more! Thank you! 🤗♥️

[@popsandclicks]

Amazing system and happy to hear that you are so pleased with it, I have not heard those speakers yet, but i believe you! The rest of the system are great! Happy Spinning and cheers!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you very much! ♥️🤗

[@bretspangler8717]

It is so great to listen to your audio journey, not everyone has that same appreciation for audio and the gear. I have finally assembled a system I am completely happy with, as of yet my main deficiency is the lack of vinyl. I mostly play digital sources, my PC, and CD's. I had my record collection stolen from my parent's home when I was overseas in the USMC, was a bitter pill to swallow, I had been collecting since I was about 9 years old. My first LPs were Uriah Heap's Demons And Wizards and Iron Butterfly's In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida. I hope sometime this year to get a new turntable and start buying records again. I have a lot of nostalgia associated with playing vinyl records, some of my fondest early memories of music. I played on my parents' console stereo, I plugged in a pair of Koss Pro4AAA into the jack in the back and listened to music while they watched Heehaw.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Vinyl is also very nostalgic for me. I spent a lot of time listening to records as a little girl. I'm so sorry your records were stolen. That Iron Butterfly record is wonderful. ♥️ Thank you for the kind words. 🤗 Take care.

[@bshah4831]

Thank you for sharing. It is amazing how with records even they are 40 years old you can still discover new insights.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree! It's amazing! 🤗♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@Tahitian58]

Best Sourcepoint 10 review I have heard to date. Clear and concise. Love how you describe the emotions you feel thank you for this review/video.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Wow! I really appreciate that. I have probably watched every possible review about these speakers so I am especially touched by the compliment. ♥️🤗 Thank you and take care.

[@Humb7757]

Wow, thank you for this beautiful video on Upgrading your Stereo System 🙏 I’ve stopped upgrading when I found a real balanced solution, you found the perfect source as Rega…and Front end ! ❤ Musicality is what’s all about and perfect balanced sound.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree. I'm extremely happy. Thank you! 🤗♥️

[@lakeoffrost4069]

Congrats on ur upgrades! Thats awesome that u took ur time and decided on whats best for u. Good call with upgrading that phono stage along with the speakers. A good phono is as important as the speakers in order to get all that detail outta the record ur looking for. The setup looks great as well. Im sure its nice as well that the upgrade bug is gone and now u can just sit down and enjoy the music in a way u havnt heard before. Congrats!

[@MelindaMurphy]

I'm very happy we bought the Rega Phono Preamp. I agree that it does a great job along with the speakers. ♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@ThePressingMatters]

Fantastic news, Melinda! I like putting together my system one thing at a time, listening for months and then deciding on what's next if anything. I'm also in the market for speakers and have considered the Source Point. Glad to hear you are happy with them! I'm sure you'll continue to update us as things get settled in.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I have really enjoyed this process and slowly building my set up. Best wishes as you look for the right speakers for you. Thank you and take care.

[@jake105]

Hey Melinda, that’s so cool. I too purchased the DP-300f about 5 years ago when I started getting back into vinyl. I have since upgraded to the DP-400f. By adding the ortofon red stylus and a decent preamplifier, it made all the difference in the world! My speakers are JBL LX500 from the 1990’s

[@MelindaMurphy]

Those upgrades truly make a difference. Good for you. 🤗♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@vintagevinylvets1187]

So excited for you Melinda, thank you so much for sharing your experience! We’re considering upgrading and getting the new NAD 3050. We’ll keep you posted!-danny & Beth🎧

[@MelindaMurphy]

Have fun! I hope you enjoy the results as much as I have. Thank you and enjoy your weekend.

[@johnnytacokleinschmidt515]

I glad you didn't stop with the "Crosley" retro unit. 16:30 my experience as an amateur musician has been exactly as you accounted. Something seems to enter the room and raise the energy, performance and joy. That is the rush and hook of music performance as I know it. To have that and the people in the room respond positively is the next level. I'm a long time pop music and electronics enthusiast and understand all of these subtle and yet massive awareness levels of hearing and being involved in listening to music. You've made a very cogent account of this in your video. It was enjoyable for me. God Bless!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you for the kind words. I'm definitely enjoying my new stereo equipment. I'm glad that I continued down my journey. The first retro unit was not at all the experience I was wanting. Now I have what I was dreaming of. 🤗♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@jasonarsenault3791]

Outstanding Melinda. Happy for you. I trust your ears that it sounds great and it definitely looks great too!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you Jason! ♥️🤗

[@arichison]

Great video! Love your upgrades. It looks like it paid off in sound and better enjoyment. I also ended up getting a phono-preamp for my Grado cartridge which is on my Dual automatic turntable. Keep listening!

[@MelindaMurphy]

A good phono preamplifier makes a huge difference. 😀 Thank you and take care.

[@rachelsghost]

Fantastic Melinda... what an incredible audio journey your story is! ❤👍

[@MelindaMurphy]

Hi Rachel! Thank you. ♥️

[@roberthurley1685]

Nice! Outstanding you guys.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you! 🤗♥️

[@carrion_man3700]

Nice set-up! I recently upgraded my phono stage to the Hegel V10 and it's been a huge improvement. This is a great hobby and it satisfies the itch for 'gear' and music enjoyment! There is a ceiling to what I'll be able to spend, but the journey to my top system is a great ride that I'm not finished with. Very happy to hear your experience.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I'm in the same boat as you. There's only so much money I (my husband 😀) will be willing to spend but this sure is a fun ride. Thank you and take care.

[@richarddixon7890]

Great video! I like seeing the VC talk about their systems as well. I get the goose bumps comments and it’s great that you might not know it’s coming, then a song on a good systems hits you. I invested in a rebuilt Marantz 2270, then got a Rega P6 with an Ortofon 2m black….but still have some 20 year old basic Klipsch…..you’ve sold me on time for a speaker 🔈 upgrade!

[@MelindaMurphy]

The goosebumps don't lie. Lol. Best wishes in your search for new speakers. ♥️🤗Thank you and take care.

[@georgemusic4all4seasons]

Wishing you many years of enjoyment on your system and really enjoy your passion for music and collecting. Your description of how you feel listening to music makes one really appreciate the great joy of music. I’m looking for new speakers and will be purchasing soon. Great channel and be well.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Best wishes and I hope your speakers upgrade is as enjoyable as mine has been. Thank you and have a great weekend.

[@korling99]

Nice path and you learned a lot in realising and appreciating your upgrades along the way

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much! It has been a fun and educational experience. 🤗♥️ Thank you so much.

[@Dan40049]

That's great Melinda. Thanks for sharing your Hi Fi system journey with us. Having a great system really enhances the whole experiance.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree! Thank you very much! 🤗♥️

[@mattfairnington5002]

Hi there. Greetings from England. I have just stumbled across your channel and subscribed. It is so lovely so listen to someone so passionate about music. Loved this video. Inspiring. ❤

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you very much! I really appreciate it. 🤗♥️

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I apologize for being late to your channel, but I just wanted to say that I found your video (and journey) very relatable and a lot of fun to experience vicariously through your experience. So glad you found a setup that makes you happy! Great video!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much!! 🤗♥️

[@AmericanConstellation]

What a great story. I'm just like you. All my life I've upgraded my stereo equipment. I have three different listening rooms with different equipment. I understand the emotional impact. I love music and many times my eyes well up. I play guitar and I can play along with the music and sometimes while I'm playing I start to cry because it's all so nice. My garage is loaded with vintage stereo equipment. I need to sell that stuff! I'm so happy that you and your hubby are enjoying the music and the hobby. Another hobby I just took up is ham radio. I talk to people all over the world and it's so much fun. It's not a cheap hobby. Now I want to play the piano. I've always wanted to play keyboards, I know I can pick it up quickly. My wife and friends can't believe it when I hear a song and grab a guitar and play right along with the song. Sorry I'm rambling on. Hey I should write a song! Ramble On....Bingo! I'll get busy with that one.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Being able to play by ear is quite a gift. My mom could play the piano that way and never learned how to read music. Good for you. If you are ready to sell the older stereo equipment, you would make a lot of people happy and have quite a bit of money. Thank you for reinforcing the idea that music can move us to tears. It's been happening a lot lately. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@Gez492]

Congratulations on your upgrades Melinda , seems like you have arrived at a great synergy within your equipment choices, due in no small part to the Rega choices at the front end,. That your original TT & the Cartridge choice was always a good one and then the addition of the Aria which is a perfect companion and a game changer in my view, is so on point. Can't comment on the source point 10 as I have never heard them but given the overwhelmingly positive reviews, I don't doubt they will continue to reveal the improvements on that excellent front end. Most of all relax into your system and just enjoy it and more importantly what it does for your collection.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I give my Rega stereo equipment a lot of credit. They are high quality. The new speakers are stunning. The best part is putting a record I have had for years on and hearing new details and better sound quality. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@patlampo9288]

😊✨Thank you again for the great insight and conversation ✨

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much! ♥️🤗

[@jerryandlisa27]

This is the one I was waiting for , thank you.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Hope you like it! Thank you!

[@StephenYoung-iq7qg]

Gone through a lot of receivers and speackers my self glad you found what works for you. Another great video I love collecting if i need to find vinyl i know where to go lol, you are a awesome person hope you have a blessed and amazing day.🌞 👍👍💯

[@MelindaMurphy]

I'm very happy with the journey I made and what I have today. ♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@gregkoblentz7872]

My daughter got a basic AT turntable playing over bluetooth last xmas from her dad (I'm lucky enough to be her step dad). We were in a vintage shop and found the record bin, I explained what she was missing out on by not being analog, so now she's just gotten one of the Dayton HTA100's for her birthday connected via wire and some of my old HT speakers, and she's enjoying it but already thinking about a new turntable. I'm a multi channel guy but once we get her a little more dialed in I'm going to get my own 2ch rig happening. It's fun to share the tech side with her while our whole gang can enjoy the music. Keep up your terrific videos, they bring all this right down to earth so non audio snobs can enjoy and maybe get into the hobby themselves.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you for the incredible compliment. I really appreciate it. ♥️ It's wonderful that you are helping your step daughter. This will be a fun and bonding experience for both of you and the entire family will enjoy it. Take care.

[@josephah2000]

Great story and very nice equipment, especially the Rega P8!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much! ♥️🤗

[@saverioricchiuto5386]

Hey Melinda, it’s been a while since I last watched your videos, not sure why YT algorithm stopped proposing me nor I got notification. So this one took me by surprise and I’m very happy to hear back from you and see the enthusiasm that characterized all your previous videos is always there, and even some! Great to hear about your updates and great to hear you still make every step in your journey with your husband: that is not so common, we “audio and music enthusiasts” are too often left alone in our men’s caves while you can tell how sharing this enthusiasm with our significant others even doubles the pleasure. Well done and keep up with the good job!

[@MelindaMurphy]

I'm not sure why I fell out of your algorithm but I'm glad you're back. 😃 In a hobby with this kind of expense, my husband deserves to have a say on what we spend. I'm just glad that he's cool with my hobby. ♥️ Thank you and take care.