15k for streamer and dac....how much on each?
for a music first, streaming only, two channel system.......with 15k in pocket (can buy new or used) is the general rule of thumb 50/50 split on the budget?
do any all in one units at this price point compare to separates?
What choice did you land on at your respective budgets?
I've not had the greatest experience with streamers.....sound more similar than dissimilar to my admittedly non golden untrained ears
As long as you pair LinQ with one of the available AQUA DAC’s via I2S, you will get the best sound from LinQ. I wanted to try LinQ in my system but its lack of USB support, proprietary I2S connectivity and max resolution upto DSD128 were the limiting features that prompted me to look elsewhere. If do pursue LinQ, make sure to get it with HQPlayer Core + NAA module. |
W20SE is the way to go if you can afford it. You can always upgrade the DAC (or not). The W20SE improved upon W20 in terms of treble without any sibilant effects, which was the case with W20. The SE is also more analog-like overall, with greater dimensionality and space between instruments. Instrumental images are more solid, tangible, and three-dimensional, with a greater impression of body. W20SE will excel further with a good USB or AES cable and equally good BNC clock cable. Hope you enjoy the audition and company of @ghdprentice. |
