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Best “end-game” system for streaming from iPhone with Ascend Sierra 2 speakers?

I’ve finally bought some Ascend Sierra 2’s after a ton of back and forth , stress and research.  

I literally just can’t get my head together around how to put together a top SQ streaming system using my iPhone through USB and wireless (I think) that will be “end-game” without spending a fortune.
I don’t plan to continually keep selling and getting new units but may add things over time (mainly more speakers/subs or entirely new systems for other rooms). 

I’m only interested in 2.1 listening WITH a subwoofer (Rel, Rythmik, MJ Acoustics etc. ?) and I listen to all types of music from the best quality versions of Tidal, Apple Music, Deezer, And even Spotify.

My budget outside of the money already spent on the Sierra’s is about 4 grand over time (the sub (s) and stands may have to come later although I would rather have it all and now of course. Used is fine but I’m thinking that I’m too scared to buy from anyone other than a dealer or someone with a stellar and extensive sales record. 

The room is not ideal as it’s very large with living and dining rooms are both together with 10 or 11 foot ceiling.

I also think that I’ve ruled out class d but could possibly be talked out of that and I also would prefer stuff made in America or Canada or Europe but that’s not 100% either. 

Less boxes and complexity is also a plus. 

Right now for example, i’m looking at a used Krell Digital Vanguard at around $2800 or a non-digital version at around $2400 but if I went for those I would probably have to delay the subwoofer and stands for awhile. Also, can I even add a sub to that unit? A Hegel Röst @ around $1900 sounds interesting but I’m concerned about the relative low power. Same for Naim Atom. Odyssey amp with a streamer/dac or preamp (or both?). You get the idea. 

I have a older cheap pc that I could possibly use if things are simple but I don’t see that happening because nothing ever seems to be when it comes to windows. I also might consider buying a cheap Apple iPad or etc if needed. 

So within those somewhat loose constraints, I would like some advice and suggestions please. 

Thanks!

 
bacchus1234

Showing 1 response by mzkmxcv

mzkmxcv
777 posts
 
The speakers and sub should be at least half your budget. Buying a $3000 amp for <$2000 speakers makes no sense.

The Outlaw RR2160 would be more than adequate, and had bass management for the sub (Rythmik FTW).

For streaming, just use AirPlay; if you have a tv, get an Apple TV, and go optical out from your tv.

Or, a Marantz SR7012; was $2000, but now <$1000 as it’s a generation old. It is surround sound receiver (with AirPlay audio), but at 1/2 price it is competitive with $1000 integrated amps.
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