Cravings can be dangerous in this hobby so tread cautiously.
You've got some good gear from what I see. Tweak it where possible. Move the speakers around.
Place the speakers closer to the two ends of that cabinet below the TV an see if it yields any improvement. Yes, one of them will come right in front of the gear but this is a experiment.
To provide context on the word 'endgame', you're looking at a TT that will cost as much as the entire system thats in your room. Let that sink in for a moment.
How much time to you spend with this gear before buying?
So cravings is not the best word i guess.. and same for 'end game'. I will need to elaborate now so sorry for being verbose.
Here is chain of thoughts:
* Basically heard couple of systems recently which probably cost 3-4 times compared to my setup but definitely excelled in some departments undoubtedly.
* An obvious upgrade was a subwoofer about which I have been reluctant all along but recently got enlightened with some videos and practical experience. So, let's see how much it augments the experience (not just the bass or lower frequencies but bringing overall richness by providing support/base to mid range)
* As posted in the other thread I waited about 8 years due to space/budget constraints to upgrade to this current system and when I did, back of the mind I knew this is a very very good system but that may not be or need not be 'the' system (that I want to have that my max budget can afford). For current system, I had almost decided on speakers and tried 3-4 amps to choose Denon which fits my taste and budget at the time.For current system, I had almost decided on speakers and tried 3-4 amps to choose Denon which fits my taste and budget at the time.
* Now speaking of a TT exceeding the cost of entire system >>> no am not looking for that kind of a budget... basically, I am not talking about random (typical audiophile type) craving where one would throw money out of the window for 5% improvements... so what am i looking for? Let's see (some of it already mentioned):
* at least 25% gain in the overall improvement and more so in certain aspects by spending 100% more
* bigger sound (bigger speakers and more watts / different 'class' - pun intended)
* that 'heavenly' sound - specifically mid range - more details without getting bright
* flexibility in 'trying out' different component because of 'loose coupling' ('separates' to an extend e.g. having pre-amp + amp in one box but separate DAC)
* Nothing to do with equipment but I want to / need to do some room treatment to take care of some reverb.
Following brands/models are on my radar right now (some I have experienced, others can be 'wish list'). Please feel free to comment / make suggestions (especially owners or members who have experienced both the brands i.e. ones i have and wishing for)
I have 250 sq. ft. living room and as you can see in the screenshots, one side is open (dining area etc)
* Accuphase E-280 amp (pre + power)
* Luxman 507z
* Wharfedale Elysian 4
* Dali Epicon / Rubicon (6 or 8)
* Sonus Faber speakers (in my budget)
* Phono pre-amp (to be researched)
* Subwoofer (already bought T/7x and excited to try it out tomorrow!!!)
There are other speakers brands am discovering and researching (e.g. zu audio)
Hope this gives you some context about the 'upgrade' / endgame (relatively much higher retention i.e. 5-6 years)
Cheers!