This represents a huge upgrade on the older presentation in every respect. I'm also a fan of the various RUclips audio reviewers responding to/referring to each other. It mirrors the experience I've had in local hi-fi shops where all the dealers know each other and will refer each other with respect and good humor. Well done!
YO WHATS UP FAM! This is Sean from Zero Fidelity. Just here to give a my boy props for coming outta retirement to deliver this banger of a video. The ballcap. Those sliding shots. Keeping the assessment more real than ever before. The only criticism I have is: Needs more sound clips! ;)
i would like a comparison to the NAD D3020, close enough in price and also a small size integrated amp. when i upgraded from my nad 3020 to separate more expensive dac and poweramp (still going with class d), there was not all that much difference. the speaker upgrade as most of the change. wonder if i could hear a change from nad to sprout.....
Good job, Ron. You've been missed. This video is a huge step up from your previous work, you've added a little narrative, some cool shot variety, I especially liked how the speaker grill disappeared in one pan. Let's get some more going!
Terrific intro Ron you also have the attitude positive vibes man! good to see another one I already want to pull the trigger on this piece 23 seconds in yeh man!
I've had the original for over 2 years. Not interested in a new one until I can switch inputs with the remote...which I told PS two years ago was the big miss. BUT where did the little shelf come from that's over the top of the Mac mini? I could certainly use THAT! Thanks for a thorough review. I use mine with Paradigm towers for mostly classical in a den that's about 10 x 10. No complaints.
PS Audio has always had the knack of finding just the right slot to fill with their products. They cover all the bases from entry level to high end, and their prices are fair for the quality you get.
whaaat!!! where had you been man? omg unbelievable how much you improved your video production and I don't mean just the video quality this is an awesome review i just love it and really miss your videos man keep up the good work!
@@Newrecordday2013 I'm quite happy you're back your videos make me feel like I'm watching a movie which is awesome specially now, this last one it's like a genuine piece of art, I want to congratule you for your work! I guess it must take a lot of effort but the result I think is totally worth it! looking forward to see more videos from your channel! my best regards!
What a sweet heart at the very end. Very interested in the Sprout 100, and either the Martin Logans, Maggies, or really good Elacs, with Planar tt and Nagaoka 110 cart.
Ron, hey man! It sure is great to have you back! Welcome back, welcome back! Nice review of the PS Audio Sprout. It might even help me….I think. I am in market for a new integrated or separates for my “reference system in progress” to replace the AVR currently in it. Time to come back to 2-channel (a while ago). While the Sprout is not on my short list due to size and configuration (my eyesight is such that I would spend most of the time going “hey, I thought I put that thing in this rack someplace”). What caught my attention besides the claims of sound quality was the part where you mentioned hooking up a pair of Paradigm speakers. I happen to run a pair of Paradigm Studio 100 v5. I take it to confirm that they will sound great with any PS Audio product. My short list currently consists of PS Audio, Parasound and Emotiva. For PS Audio I am looking at either the Steller Gain Dac with the S-300 or the M700s. Right now though I am entering “analysis paralysis” because all three companies look to make fantastic gear and I am getting very competitive pricing offers bringing everyone to within $1 of each other…that is partly what is causing my paralysis if you will. Great to have you back Ron and I look forward to more of your reviews and such!
Let me help you: Scratch Emotiva off of your list. Their products have a rather edgy and forward sound. Couple that to the already forward sounding Studio 100's, and you have a combo that'll rip your ears to shreds. To keep this short and clean, if you want to stick with your Studio 100's, go Parasound. It'll make for a better match. If you want to bring in the Buchardt S300's, then go with the PS Audio Sprout II. Damned good match for the money. The warm presentation of the S300's make for a great pairing with the somewhat lean sound of the Sprout.
Hey Sean, thank you so much! Thank you for noticing! Yes, I had a second talk with Emotiva today and scratched them. I am leaning mostly towards Parasound, but can only afford either one A-23 with the P6 preamp or the 2250 or 2125 with the P6 if I can't get a deal. I wish I could get two A-23s or 2125s or something and bridge them, but it puts me over budget. I'm still holding the door open for PS Audio regarding the Stellar Gain pre and a pair of M700 monos because they are willing to give me big credit for my AVR, but would still be a $300 difference higher. I have a chance to see the PS Audio set up in person, so I will go do that, but that Parasound P6 is stealing the show, not to mention your reviews of their gear so far.
Ron. Starting on first HIFI sys. 2.0/2.1. Loving Klipsch Hersey lll (but probably can only afford the RP 600m now) but I'm going to shoot for the H3's. What about this combo: Sprout plus iFi micro iTune2? or Better Sprout plus Schiit Freya Preamp? or Better yet...Crown XLS plus any of the aforementioned preamps? Or maybe just a plain 'ol Integrated Amp like the Rogue Sphinx v2?
This style of multi-gear/comparison/synergy-assessing review is incredibly useful and enlightening for the 'real world'. Add the humanistic touch too, and you get that unique blend of sheer entertainment and inspired brilliance.
I tried to enjoy the sprout 100 but it sounded smaller in sound stage compared to my 80s denon integrated amplifier with my speakers (jbl 530s). It's great in design quality, but I guess there is a class D sound that is inherent to it.
Between this and the audiolab 6000a for $100 more. Also considering the NAD c368 refurbished for $700 which is what the sprout goes for. Thoughts? Bedroom system with kef q150. Also maybe the NAD d 3045. So many options.
Very nice review, thank you! I've had the Sprout 100 on my "maybe this one?" list for a while and I wanted to ask you how you chose the speakers you paired it with. Are they just something you had around, or do they have some quality that pairs especially well with the Sprout. I'd like to know how much, or little, one should spend on speakers to pair with the sprout - would Buchardt S400s be overkill? I'd have liked the the review to explain why you picked the speakers you chose to feature here. You said the ones built from a kit were your favorite, but I'm not likely to be building my own speakers any time soon :) I guess, in a nutshell, what properties would you like to see in speakers that you think pair well with the Sprout, and (if applicable) how much money would be too much to spend on them.
Ron, would the sprout be a good pair for the KEF’s LS50? And what’s in the market today that would be a a direct upgrade from the Sprout to pair with the KEF’s? I absolutely love your channel man! 🏆
Dude thanks! Yeah - I do think the sprout would be a fine amp for the ls50s! Large part of that combo will be how you are using them and how close you are to the speaker. But yes, that combo should work out pretty good!
Man it is so good to have you back! Actually looking at getting a Sprout for a desk top setup. I live about 30 miles from their headquarters, maybe if I buy one they will give me a tour! LOL Great review man!
i just say thank you!!! Do i need preamp for this? i will do with avo for 2019, Excellent review waiting help from you guys thanks for the channel and welcome here in PuertoRico.
Way late, but no you don't need a pre-amp. The Sprout100 has a phono stage, a dac, and line inputs. It can take those inputs and run them through its integrated pre-amp and amplifier at 50W into 8ohms or 100W into 4ohms. This also has a subwoofer pre out as well a left and right line out. Basically you just need this and some speakers. The sprout100 is truly a great option to open you up to the world of critical listening. It is only a first step, but a great first step for the money.
I spent $60 on a set of Ohm Walsh and a set of Ohm Walsh 2’s at a thrift store. Are they the best speakers ever? No. Do they blow my mind everyday? Absolutely. Immovable imaging and my sub picks up the slack. It’s beautiful.
What an incredibly well thought out and enjoyable video. Plus, I have a Sprout 100. Or I should say, HAD a 100. Remember the industry hi-fi term "WAF" - Wife Acceptance Factor? The new WAF is Wife Appropriation Factor. She loves it. I hooked up a nice Pro-ject Carbon TT and she spins vinyl in her office during the day. Its the first piece of audio equipment she has not asked me how to operate.
Hi there - would this give my ELAC debut 6.2’s the power they crave? I know PS Audio now markets the two together but thought I’d ask a non interested party...mostly vinyl listening. It’s between the sprout and the Yamaha S501 for me. Any insight/advice would be appreciated!
I was considering this for my small listening room. Mostly CD are used. I currently have a Yamaha RS202 on ELAC 6.2. Would you recommend this? I listen to all types of music from Tool To Charles Mingus. Always low to moderate volume. The yammy is 100 per channel as well but just looking for better watts for the ELACS if that makes sense.
@@Newrecordday2013 the Yamaha is fine bar wattage output I just thought the Sprout maybe a cleaner amp. The Yamaha is not bad I was just honestly looking to upgrade
Welcome back Ron! You have certainly taken it up a few notches and this it probably your best work yet. Can’t wait for more!
This represents a huge upgrade on the older presentation in every respect. I'm also a fan of the various RUclips audio reviewers responding to/referring to each other. It mirrors the experience I've had in local hi-fi shops where all the dealers know each other and will refer each other with respect and good humor. Well done!
Dude, thanks so much for taking the time to watch!
YO WHATS UP FAM! This is Sean from Zero Fidelity. Just here to give a my boy props for coming outta retirement to deliver this banger of a video. The ballcap. Those sliding shots. Keeping the assessment more real than ever before. The only criticism I have is: Needs more sound clips! ;)
I love all this cross-channel love going on.
HERE HERE! Right on Sean! Great to have Ron back doing the gig again!
Soooooounddddddclllliiiipppssssss >
All I needed was a "polk audio" hat and that scene would have been perfect.
Hell yeah!
Good to have you back Ron. It’s like reuniting with an old friend where you pick up the conversation right where you left off. It just feels right!
Anthony Crisp dude, I’m in good company! Thanks bro!
your best produced video yet, thank you for your efforts to better the audio world
Thanks so much for noticing that! Appreciate it!
Ron is back, baby!! Warm welcome back to New Record Day, bruv.
Thank you bro!
Loved the first 7 minutes of this review the most. Keep changing things up. Amazing work man
Such an outstanding, thorough, and honest review. I love your style and professional quality.
Thanks so much Thomas, really appreciate it! It was refreshing for me as well!
Good to have you back Ron! Great video.
Good to be back!
Welcome back Ron!!! and by the way, great production,amazing quality of work
Thanks so much! Appreciate that!
It's a new day and Ron is here to save the day! Loved the ending,and welcome back!!!
Dude, shes the best! Thanks for watching!
One of your best reviews. Very educational and not just when it comes to the products.
Hey, I appreciate that!
Your emotional experience and growth is written all over this video❤️💪🏼 Thank you for making through!
Thank you for your excellent review. It helped me make decisions about my gear purchases
Best wishes and keep your awesome videos coming !!
Outstanding review Ron as always.. Well done man, fantastic job..
Thanks Tony! Appreciate you!
I’m loving the renewed energy. Kudos!
You and me both!
He Lives! Good to see you back.
Yes he does! Thanks for watching!
i would like a comparison to the NAD D3020, close enough in price and also a small size integrated amp.
when i upgraded from my nad 3020 to separate more expensive dac and poweramp (still going with class d), there was not all that much difference. the speaker upgrade as most of the change.
wonder if i could hear a change from nad to sprout.....
Nice to see you back,buddy
It's good to have you back Ron!!!
Good to be back!
I'm so happy you're back!
Sweet..nice to see your finally back...am thinking about getting the Sprout 100
It really is a nice little unit!
Good job, Ron. You've been missed. This video is a huge step up from your previous work, you've added a little narrative, some cool shot variety, I especially liked how the speaker grill disappeared in one pan. Let's get some more going!
Glad to have you back! I really enjoy your reviews.
Great to have you back!
Outlaw Race Parts great to be back!
Welcome back dude! That was a belter of a review. Love the ZF parody :-)
Jeff Joshua Rollin Dude, thank you so much I appreciate it
Oh so happy your back. You have truly stepped your game!
Yup, this and a pair of Elac Uni-Fi UB5's. Not bad at all.
Excellent video Ron , welcome back and looking forward to your future reviews 👍
Thank you!
Very well done, great documentary style review also like the use of different speakers. Your daughter is lovely. Thanks for this
Good to have you back.
So good to be back!
Glad your back Ron
Thank you!
Love the new review style and video production!
Thanks so much for watching!
You rock Ron, so glad you're back!!!
Michael Corsentino so glad you came back!
Terrific intro Ron you also have the attitude positive vibes man! good to see another one I already want to pull the trigger on this piece 23 seconds in yeh man!
Hell yes! Thanks for watching!
Excellent review! Welcome back.
Thanks for the kindness!
Wait! Are you back? Awesome! Not even gonna ask where you've been.
No need to wait, im back!
Good to see u back!
Thank you!
I've had the original for over 2 years. Not interested in a new one until I can switch inputs with the remote...which I told PS two years ago was the big miss. BUT where did the little shelf come from that's over the top of the Mac mini? I could certainly use THAT! Thanks for a thorough review. I use mine with Paradigm towers for mostly classical in a den that's about 10 x 10. No complaints.
I agree on the input switching - would be a smart move. I actually made the shelf.
that silder shot at the start was !!!! fire amazing filming man really enjoying it only thing that could sue some work is the colour grading
MarkosGeorgiou Photography thank you!
PS Audio has always had the knack of finding just the right slot to fill with their products. They cover all the bases from entry level to high end, and their prices are fair for the quality you get.
Julia Set I agree
all i can say welcome back
great review
Thank you!
Well done! One of the most fun reviews ever, from anyone!
This video is OUTSTANDING!!! Man, you know your stuff. Well done!
Loving the production upgrade! 🥇
Heck yeah man! Thanks! Canon 6d mkII and an Aputure 120D mkII did all the heavy lifting!
New Record Day Nice light! I still use cheap LED vanity lights for my videos haha
Ditto
Glad you’re back we’ve missed you
Ive missed you dudes!
If you can get your mits on a NAD D 3045 it would be a interesting comparison. Great review of the Sprout 100.
whaaat!!! where had you been man? omg unbelievable how much you improved your video production and I don't mean just the video quality this is an awesome review i just love it and really miss your videos man keep up the good work!
Techoman thanks man! Good to be back!
@@Newrecordday2013 I'm quite happy you're back your videos make me feel like I'm watching a movie which is awesome specially now, this last one it's like a genuine piece of art, I want to congratule you for your work! I guess it must take a lot of effort but the result I think is totally worth it! looking forward to see more videos from your channel! my best regards!
What a sweet heart at the very end.
Very interested in the Sprout 100, and either the Martin Logans, Maggies, or really good Elacs, with Planar tt and Nagaoka 110 cart.
I would love to hear more about doing the measurements and what equipment your using to do it. Nice to have you back! Thanks Ron.
Ron, hey man! It sure is great to have you back! Welcome back, welcome back!
Nice review of the PS Audio Sprout. It might even help me….I think.
I am in market for a new integrated or separates for my “reference system in progress” to replace the AVR currently in it. Time to come back to 2-channel (a while ago). While the Sprout is not on my short list due to size and configuration (my eyesight is such that I would spend most of the time going “hey, I thought I put that thing in this rack someplace”). What caught my attention besides the claims of sound quality was the part where you mentioned hooking up a pair of Paradigm speakers. I happen to run a pair of Paradigm Studio 100 v5. I take it to confirm that they will sound great with any PS Audio product.
My short list currently consists of PS Audio, Parasound and Emotiva. For PS Audio I am looking at either the Steller Gain Dac with the S-300 or the M700s.
Right now though I am entering “analysis paralysis” because all three companies look to make fantastic gear and I am getting very competitive pricing offers bringing everyone to within $1 of each other…that is partly what is causing my paralysis if you will.
Great to have you back Ron and I look forward to more of your reviews and such!
Dude, between those 3 brands, I must admit I do have limited experience! Let me know where you land!
Will do!
Let me help you: Scratch Emotiva off of your list. Their products have a rather edgy and forward sound. Couple that to the already forward sounding Studio 100's, and you have a combo that'll rip your ears to shreds. To keep this short and clean, if you want to stick with your Studio 100's, go Parasound. It'll make for a better match. If you want to bring in the Buchardt S300's, then go with the PS Audio Sprout II. Damned good match for the money. The warm presentation of the S300's make for a great pairing with the somewhat lean sound of the Sprout.
Hey Sean, thank you so much! Thank you for noticing! Yes, I had a second talk with Emotiva today and scratched them. I am leaning mostly towards Parasound, but can only afford either one A-23 with the P6 preamp or the 2250 or 2125 with the P6 if I can't get a deal. I wish I could get two A-23s or 2125s or something and bridge them, but it puts me over budget.
I'm still holding the door open for PS Audio regarding the Stellar Gain pre and a pair of M700 monos because they are willing to give me big credit for my AVR, but would still be a $300 difference higher. I have a chance to see the PS Audio set up in person, so I will go do that, but that Parasound P6 is stealing the show, not to mention your reviews of their gear so far.
Just another welcome back message, but really, welcome back man 🙂
Thank you kindly!
Can’t wait to see what’s next
Thanks for the rad guit setups, Ron! Pro quality vid too!
Duuuuuude. We need to do refresh on those guys, get them back over to me soon.
Today I uploaded some videos paring my Sprout v1 with my B&W 805N , and the sprout drove them with great quality !
Welcome back.... great vid
TY!
Wow! Welcome back!
Ron. Starting on first HIFI sys. 2.0/2.1. Loving Klipsch Hersey lll (but probably can only afford the RP 600m now) but I'm going to shoot for the H3's. What about this combo: Sprout plus iFi micro iTune2? or Better Sprout plus Schiit Freya Preamp? or Better yet...Crown XLS plus any of the aforementioned preamps? Or maybe just a plain 'ol Integrated Amp like the Rogue Sphinx v2?
Ill be reviewing the Heresy IIIs in a couple weeks! Ill have a better opinion after getting my ear on them!
Cool channel! And awesome production style :) Subscribed.
I love the production value of this video!
Upss he is back
We’ve miss you
I have missed you knuckleheads as well!
She is the princess of audio.Great video.Alex.
Dude, shes the best thing ever!
Damn right.I know exactly what you mean.Whole new meaning.In everything.
This style of multi-gear/comparison/synergy-assessing review is incredibly useful and enlightening for the 'real world'. Add the humanistic touch too, and you get that unique blend of sheer entertainment and inspired brilliance.
Thank you so much for this - I have put a lot of thought into how to move forward and you get it. I am glad you enjoyed the results!
I would like to see a comparison of Sprout to PS Audio other integrated amp the Stellar Strata. PS vs PS. Worth the extra money for the Strata?
Really great to see you back. Awesome work on the video, well written, well filmed. Good job on the B roll footage. What's your new camera setup?
John Livings Canon 6d mkii, Aputure 120d mkii lighting, numerous lenses.
I love the new presentation style!!!
I want to see more of Mark's thrift finds. Doesn't matter to me if I can't buy it. Love the dolly work.
Hes out of control, every single day I get a text from him "Duuuude, check this out!"
Welcome back man 👍
I tried to enjoy the sprout 100 but it sounded smaller in sound stage compared to my 80s denon integrated amplifier with my speakers (jbl 530s). It's great in design quality, but I guess there is a class D sound that is inherent to it.
Catch the Wave some of those vintage receivers kick ass! Not surprised by this really.
welcome back👍
Between this and the audiolab 6000a for $100 more. Also considering the NAD c368 refurbished for $700 which is what the sprout goes for. Thoughts? Bedroom system with kef q150. Also maybe the NAD d 3045. So many options.
Very nice review, thank you! I've had the Sprout 100 on my "maybe this one?" list for a while and I wanted to ask you how you chose the speakers you paired it with. Are they just something you had around, or do they have some quality that pairs especially well with the Sprout. I'd like to know how much, or little, one should spend on speakers to pair with the sprout - would Buchardt S400s be overkill? I'd have liked the the review to explain why you picked the speakers you chose to feature here. You said the ones built from a kit were your favorite, but I'm not likely to be building my own speakers any time soon :)
I guess, in a nutshell, what properties would you like to see in speakers that you think pair well with the Sprout, and (if applicable) how much money would be too much to spend on them.
Brian Smith Brian, shoot me an email with your contact info, I’ll call you and explain all this cause it’s a darn good question! Ron@newrecordday.com
In short, avoiding a shouty or bright top end is what your best bet is with the sprout.
@@Newrecordday2013 Done and done, thank you! I look forward to chatting with you.
>> I'd like to know how much, or little, one should spend on speakers to pair with the sprout - would Buchardt S400s be overkill?
OMG! Ron is back!
OMG! Yes I am!
sprout100 paired with old school klipsch forte2? any thoughts on the combo? thanks for the effort and the sharing. thumbs up.
I could see that working out very very well!
Daaamn! i love the vlog-style!
Keep it up dude!
Ron, would the sprout be a good pair for the KEF’s LS50? And what’s in the market today that would be a a direct upgrade from the Sprout to pair with the KEF’s? I absolutely love your channel man! 🏆
Dude thanks! Yeah - I do think the sprout would be a fine amp for the ls50s! Large part of that combo will be how you are using them and how close you are to the speaker. But yes, that combo should work out pretty good!
Man it is so good to have you back! Actually looking at getting a Sprout for a desk top setup. I live about 30 miles from their headquarters, maybe if I buy one they will give me a tour! LOL Great review man!
PS Audio gives tours Monday through Friday. They would love to show you the new factory.
PS Audio gives tours Monday through Friday. They would love to show you the new factory.
PS Audio gives tours Monday through Friday. They would love to show you the new factory.
PS Audio gives tours Monday through Friday. They would love to show you the new factory.
PS Audio gives tours Monday through Friday. They would love to show you the new factory.
i just say thank you!!! Do i need preamp for this?
i will do with avo for 2019, Excellent review waiting help from you guys thanks for the channel and welcome here in PuertoRico.
Way late, but no you don't need a pre-amp. The Sprout100 has a phono stage, a dac, and line inputs. It can take those inputs and run them through its integrated pre-amp and amplifier at 50W into 8ohms or 100W into 4ohms. This also has a subwoofer pre out as well a left and right line out. Basically you just need this and some speakers. The sprout100 is truly a great option to open you up to the world of critical listening. It is only a first step, but a great first step for the money.
Awesome review man
Andy Bullen thanks man!
About Time!
I was wanting to know how it sounds with those Gallo Stradas behind you!
Welcome back
I spent $60 on a set of Ohm Walsh and a set of Ohm Walsh 2’s at a thrift store. Are they the best speakers ever? No. Do they blow my mind everyday? Absolutely. Immovable imaging and my sub picks up the slack. It’s beautiful.
I am torn between getting the Sprout and the Outlaw Audio receiver!
nicholascremato I just emailed Outlaw and asked if they want to party. We will see.
Outlaw!
I’d use the 4 band Schiit Audio eq with the avo’s
I keep going back between the Sprout and the Peachtree Decco 125 Sky.
Rumblestrip.NET that’s a tough one!
Well since you have the connections, hook a brother up and get that Peachtree in for review!! :D
Wondering how the Sprout 100 will sound with a pair of vintage B&W DM602s ?
Absolutely top quality content. WELCOME BACK!!!
Where can I order that shelf for the Sprout 100?
Great review!
It's a custom made shelf
What an incredibly well thought out and enjoyable video. Plus, I have a Sprout 100. Or I should say, HAD a 100. Remember the industry hi-fi term "WAF" - Wife Acceptance Factor? The new WAF is Wife Appropriation Factor. She loves it. I hooked up a nice Pro-ject Carbon TT and she spins vinyl in her office during the day. Its the first piece of audio equipment she has not asked me how to operate.
Dude, goes to show PS Audio really knew how to make something so much nicer than a typical large, black box!
May I ask what the Mac Mini is used for under the Sprout and how about that stand that the Mini fits under... is that something made or purchased?
Interested as well.
Thanks for asking! I made them.
Hi New Record Day, would you recommend this amp with the Elac Unifi UB5?
Thanks, good review
Do you think there is a big difference with the Loxjie A30 (200eur)?
For a desktop setup.
Is the Sprout 100 worth four times the price?
Seems to me one has to almost go up 2x in price to get better integrated -ie atoll, Peachtree, audiolab -right ?
Hi Ron great review! Where can I grab one of those little shelves you have with the Mac mini under the sprout?
Mike Espineli hey Mike, I made them!
It seems the AVO's are no longer available. Do you have a speaker in their current line up that you would recommend?
Hi there - would this give my ELAC debut 6.2’s the power they crave? I know PS Audio now markets the two together but thought I’d ask a non interested party...mostly vinyl listening. It’s between the sprout and the Yamaha S501 for me. Any insight/advice would be appreciated!
I take it that you would recommend the Sprout over a Marantz PM 6006..
I was considering this for my small listening room. Mostly CD are used. I currently have a Yamaha RS202 on ELAC 6.2. Would you recommend this? I listen to all types of music from Tool To Charles Mingus. Always low to moderate volume. The yammy is 100 per channel as well but just looking for better watts for the ELACS if that makes sense.
Having a hard time thinking why your Yamaha isnt cutting it. Thats strange!
The
@@Newrecordday2013 the Yamaha is fine bar wattage output I just thought the Sprout maybe a cleaner amp. The Yamaha is not bad I was just honestly looking to upgrade