$2-3k budget? Definitely look for a DAC as the one in any Bluesound device is ok at best, better as a streamer only. If you don’t upgrade to a LPS then definitely or regardless get a better C7 power cord and run ethernet not wireless. I’d look at spending $1k on the DAC and get a nice SPDIF cable that is at least 1M long, longer is better yet. Forget DSP for two channel and work on your room and speaker placement. With $2k left I wouldn’t entertain two lower priced subs, as they will not have the speed likely of one quality sub unless you want boomy bass, then why worry with room correction? Stick with one sub for now and look at REL as it will be the easiest for hookup going with their high level input. Later you can always add another sub if you feel you need it. Plenty of nice DAC’s for $1k that will outperform the Node easily, and REL has subs under 2K. JL Audio is another line of subs to look into. You get what you pay for.
DAC/Pre-Amp Advice
Hey all!
Currently at a crossroads in my HiFi adventure. I want to know what you guys would recommend as my next upgrade to my system. Here is the equipment I currently have:
Bluesound Node
Yamaha A-S1200
Sony UBP-X800 (Using this as SACD player)
Rega Planar 2 Turntable
Pair of B&W 704 S2
I have had the amp for around 45-60 days now, and I love the sound now that I have had time to burn it in. Mostly stream music from Tidal right now (trying out Qobuz), and play the occasional Record/SACD with the equipment above. I feel the only things I am really desiring in this system is some type of room correction, and subwoofers.
When looking at room correcting software, what all do you guys recommend? With new Preamp/DAC would I need it to support MQA, or would my Node be able to take care of that? Budget is around $2500-3000, but I'm open to frankly any other suggestions. If you guys need any other info please let me know, looking forward to the discussion.