Finally absolutely satisfied with my system


Just wanted to share my satisfaction with the latest iteration of my setup. I wrote some posts here seeking advice on improving this or that component as I was not satisfied with my system, so I thought I’d share a positive experience.

For the past year and half I’ve been trying to build a pleasurable system for a desktop setup. I sit a significant amount of hours a day at my desk and listen to music throughout, so I wanted a great system that I could really enjoy music. I’ve changed 4 amps, 5 dacs, 5 speakers, and various other components (mostly buying and reselling here and other used gear platforms). Some changes brought improvements, some not, and some even degradation. Finally, I am not thinking about "upgrading" anything.

The system:
Exposure 2010S2D integrated
PMC DB1i
PS Audio NuWave DSD DAC
Foobar2000 on desktop PC, CD’s ripped to FLAC
Various aftermarket power cords (Furutech, DH Labs, Wireworld ... still tinkering with which cable to which component)
Mogami / KLE DIY RCA
Mogami W3103 12awg speaker wire

Listening at low volumes still has plenty of detail and high volume is not needed to enjoy the music, but at moderate volume level (7-8 o’clock) the sound is simply immersive and amazing. All my previous gear was more or less on the same "level" (atleast price-wise) as these units, so I can’t explain why the experience is so much better now.

The biggest difference was brought by the PMC speakers (moving from Neat Motive 3. The PMC may be a better match for near-field listening). The Exposure amp brought another huge dose of musicality (replacing a Creek 5350SE). The NuWave DSD DAC is definitely an improvement from my previous Hiface + DL3, but it brought a less significant change as the above 2.

That’s it..... going to listen to some music!
itsikhefez
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Outstanding!

PMC make great speakers that measure extremely well and sound great. Lots of engineering, experience, and working with driver manufacturers.

The *only* thing I would recommend you consider (funds allowing) is a Bryston B-100 SST. You can even find some with an onboard DAC.

I have not heard the Exposure but if you've hit the [satisfaction] sweet spot, enjoy!

@keithtexas Thanks for the suggestion. Looking to replace the Creek, my main 2 options were Bryston and Naim (5si, XS) from what I've read about matching to PMC. My funds only permitted a Bryston B60 and that wasn't my top choice. I took the plunge on the Exposure which from what I've previously read is similar to Naim but is more detailed with wider soundstage. I can't compare to any of the above since I didn't hear them in my system but I can say that the Exposure is great.

@jafant Yes, it actually already sold! Once I had the Exposure, I compared it side by side to the Creek. To be honest, there isn't MUCH between the two, but I liked the Exposure better. Music was clearer, and overall more enjoyable. Financially, I would lose less reselling the Creek, so I listed it here and it sold on the same day, which was pretty quick
Both the Creek 5350SE and Destiny are excellent integrated amps- better than most think.
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I have found in hi fi and life, if I buy good stuff at the outset, I keep what I buy for a long time, respect and enjoy it more, and it ends up costing a lot less in the long run! It also distracts me from material pursuits and frees up my mind to concentrate on the stuff that really matters.
I believe I've reached the same conclusion with mine.  Stay away from the audio shows to keep temptation at bay.
Happy with your system last longer as long you not browsing here often 😀. too much temptation and curiosity here !
I hate to say this, but... Even though there are times when I am thrilled with my rig, when it seems everything is just right, a real goldilocks situation, there are times when things are less right.  Then, when I am thinking it just can't get any better without spending gobs of money, a small speaker position adjustment or a new cable will take things to an even better level.  But, really, enjoy your system!   
@bondmanp I know what you mean. I myself, have made some slight adjustments since this post :)
I am atleast happy that I didn't have the urge to replace any of the main components, but I did do some tweaking since such as adding a iFi iUSB and iPurifier between the PC and DAC, replaced the power cord connectors to Furutech Rhodium, in addition to a Rhodium fuse in the amp.
Subtle differences... not night and day though
chayro - I did.  My first "hi-fi" 'table was an entry-level Technics with Stanton pickup in 1976.  My current 'table is a modded Thorens TD-166MkII I bought new in 1984.  I run it with either an Ortofon OM-30 or a Denon 160 cartridge.  But man does not live by analog alone!  
Always nice to hear when someone gets off the equipment roller coaster, and is settled with their system. I've been settled in without any competent change since 2015, and I have zero desire to change anything. I continue to keep my fingers crossed about my ancient Linn Arkiv B phono cartridge.