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!!!
I asked this question a few days ago on this thread, but got no response. I think it's an important point that needs to be discussed. On a Streamer/DAC unit what format does the streamer hand off the signal to the DAC. Is it USB, SPDIF or something better, as they're in the same enclosure. Eliminating this signal transfer seems to be an advantage over separates. |
@koestner if you’re referring to the built in network renderer, I believe In the case of my Bricasti M3 it’s an internal I2S connection. It’s a Roon ready endpoint and I liked it better than the Lumin U1 Mini connected to the M3 via Audience AU24se+ USB cable. But the connection between external streamer and DAC is not as important as the streamer itself. With the Aurender N200 that I use now, the Bricasti inbuilt network renderer doesn’t come close in sound quality. I’ve hone back and forth several times. |
I had the Naim ND5 and LUMIN t3 side by side on a McIntosh MC7270 and C220, and much preferred the LUMIN unit. (Esoteric system is using the same LUMIN application is their system too (just as information)). Both we hooked up with XLR cable (´Orange ‘ LUNA). LUMIN was more precise during classic musique, during Jazz music the brass was sounding more natural as well than the Naïm. just an input, all ears have their taste ;o) cheers |
