Audio Logic v. Audio Note v. Audio Aero v. Audiome

I am encouraged to hear that my short list is a good place to start. I wish I had the opportunity to hear some of them. Unfortunately, in Chicago, none of them is available. I have spoken with a few out of state dealers. However, none of them is familiar with more than two of the units in question. So, your help is very important. Thank you.

By the way, any thoughts as to a good ratio of ones budget to spend on the DAC v. the transport? For example, would a $7,000 DAC w/ my $500 Sony 5 disk DVD player be preferable to a $4,000 DAC with a $3,000 transport? Given my history of upgrading something every several months, I think that would probably be more cost effective in the long run.

I have ordered the Audio Logic 24MXl. I am sure it will be a step up from my Cary. Thanks for all your help.

Rcprince, thanks for the notice to be patient. My initial expections will be low because I will be using an 6 year old Sony 5 disk DVD changer for a transport while I research a better one. I read your suggestions on Forsell and CEC. Service for both seems difficult. Have you encountered anything transports that you would recomend that can be serviced in the US?

Goone, thanks. I wouldn't started with those if you hadn't suggested them. I will start looking for a pair. I tried to find some for my preamp several months ago and couldn't find a pair. Do you happen to know anyone who might have some?

Goone, are you referring to Scubadaddy? I have some cryoed Telefunken 12AT7s in my VTLs. They are great. Have you tried replacing the 6350s? Any improvement? Thanks.

Golden Ears, I just ordered is (after the thread was started). Why do you ask?