Are you open to tubes? Your tastes would certainly point in that direction. Also, do you have stored music you need to play through a server or are you ok just streaming through something like Qobuz or Tidal?
DAC/Streamer/PreAmp
I hope this question will allow everyone to have some fun. I have a pair of Focal Sopra 3 (I dont consider them bright, but just right), 2x REL S812 subs, and a Bryston 6bsst2 amp. I know it is a 3 channel amp. It was being used in my Movie Theater. Going forward I will be using it for a 2 channel system until I decide to buy mono blocks. This 2 channel system will only be streaming digital music, but might consider adding a photo stage later, so would like analogue inputs. The room is fully treated from 30hz on up, and is 16'w x 30'd x 10'h.
I am looking for a Streamer/DAC/Preamp to run this system. I really do not want to add a computer to this system to run files through it. I prefer a plug and play solution. It can be one piece or 3 separates. I like a rich sound from top to bottom. I prefer a sound like Aretha Franklin over Allison Krause. I would like a big Soundstage. I also have 1 gig speed thriugh ethernet. The final item is the budget. I really like Value, so if you can come in below the budget it will be considered. $10-20k USD max. Will consider new and used. I have considered T+A, Naim, Mola Mola, and some other manufacturers, but would like yalls input.
Let's Go!!!
Showing 3 responses by soix
Funny you mentioned Lampi because that’s exactly why I asked about tubes as Lampi DACs have a rep for having a huge, voluminous 3D soundstage. Then I’m thinking you want a preamp that can just convey all that goodness without either squelching it nor overdoing it to make things overly ripe, and the Backert Rhumba Extreme 1.4 came to mind as it also throws a big stage but won’t overly color things, and the tubes last forever. Last, I’d hop on this Innuos Pulsar streamer that incorporates Innuos’ latest thinking and technology and comes with their Sense app that gets top reviews for both sound and usability, which puts it in pretty rare air as many others are compromised in one way or another. Here’s a pristine used unit that’s 31% or $2500 off the $8k retail price. Cha CHING! https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/650067155-innuos-pulsar-streamer/ And you’re right — I did have a lotta fun with this and hope it’s at least somewhat useful. Best of luck in your quest! |
As you asked offline about the Backert Rhumba Extreme and ARC preamps I’ll share this review that compares the Rhumba vs. the ARC LS17SE, which was priced $2k less at the time but just as an indication of the different sound characteristics… As I mentioned, the ARC REF5 SE is an incredible pre and at a different level entirely from the LS17SE, and as you can get one of these used for around $6k that would absolutely have to be in the conversation. Here’s one that may still be available… https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lis9ba7e-audio-research-ref-5-se-silver-preamp-complete-tube The newer Rhumba Extreme 1.4 goes for $8500 new so a pretty dear premium to a used REF5 SE, but if you can find a used Rhumba 1.3 Extreme and can deal with only one fully balanced input (versus 2 on the 1.4) you’re looking at a nice discount to a used REF5 SE. Personally this would be a tough decision and would likely come down to which sound profile most closely matches your personal preferences so read the reviews. The good news — there’s no way in hell you’d go wrong either way, so there’s that.
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