2. amps-preamps
  3. 179535-175284

A Tale of Two Cambridge Audio Edge Amps

I have been looking at either the Edge W and Edge A as a not too distant future purchase. Each one has definite advantages along with some drawbacks in the general scheme of my current audio setup : HD and Ultra HD sound streamed from pc via usb (2m) to Denafrips DAC Pontus II ( $2k and great reviews) onto my current integrated YBA amp connected to my speakers.

Considerations we can explore :

1..Is it pointless to hold onto the Denafrips DAC if purchasing the CA Edge A with DAC included. Do two DAC running together compromise sound or augment it to a certain degree .....If going the route of the Edge A , longer USB cable to pc , going from current 2m to 3m or so to connect the Edge A to the pc. That would mean also selling off my AQ Earth IC as no need for them anymore.

2...if deciding on the Edge W power amp, the Denafrips DAC will stay along with the AQ Earth IC . No volume control on either DAC or power amp , so all volume management done on pc.

Interestingly enough, pro reviews have given the Edge A stellar ratings across the board. With the Edge W power amp garnering slightly less praise all in all.

I guess the ultimate decision will be based on whether the SQ of the Edge A connected to the Denafrips DAC or directly to pc would be significantly better than just the Denafrips DAC and Edge W power amp combo ?.........There is approx $1.5k to $2k price difference between the Edge A int amp and Edge W power amp.

 

Feel free to offer any thoughts or opinions.

 

 

 

chaseton

Showing 1 response by rooze

rooze's avatar
rooze
580 posts
 

Personally I think you'd improve the sound of your system by moving away from the PC and investing in something like a Lumin U1 Mini with the Sbooster power supply. The Lumin has a proprietary volume control that people are using to replace expensive high-end preamps to good effect. 

Then I'd get the Edge W and drive it straight from the Lumin, assuming you're OK with one source. To my way of thinking, that resolves two weaknesses and ought to sound fantastic.

I love Cambridge gear!

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