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!!!
@bcrosley - welcome to the forum. I’d like to hear more about your comparison of the MU2 the MSB -- which version of MSB and what were the other system components?
Yeah, seems there have been a lot of threads about preamps lately, both here and WBF. It’s making me wonder if I should try out some preamps again. I thought it seemed like a good idea to simplify by going from tube separates to SS integrated, but maybe not. |
To respond to your Question of why I suggest the Grimm MU & MU2 and what corresponding equipment I have: I have had two configurations, one with the MU1 output into a MSB Discrete DAC and then just the MU2 as a Roon server, Streamer, DAC. My system consist of a VAC Master pre-amp, a Boulder 1160 power amp, a Thorens TD124 turntable, and Sonus Faber Amati G5 floor standers. I have a Shunyata Altaira grounding system. Most connections are balanced (a must for the Grimm products). I found the MU1/MSB-DAC combo to be the best digital sound I have ever heard (until the MU2). The sound is very full, detailed, and especially not harsh. I then traded the MU1 and for the MU2 and found even a richer, low noise sound. I have not yet tried the MU2 preamp directly into my power amp since I have the VAC Master pre-amp which overlays everything with a very harmonic layer due to its tubes. |
That seems like a very well put together system - I'd like to hear it. I listened to the new Amati G5 at a dealer, but the room and speaker placement were not good, so I I did not get a good impression of the speakers. I had the original Amati Homage 20 years ago and regret selling them. I'd like to hear about the results if go direct from the MU2 to the Boulder 1160. I'm waiting on delivery of a MU2 and wondering if I should get a preamp. |
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