I understand the computer can be a weak link. But, even though if I add a good streamer I will still have to use the PC as a roon core. I don't think using a LAN connection instead of USB will make such a big difference
How much should I spend on a new DAC
Hello Gents. What would be reasonable sum to spend on a new DAC relative to my current audio rig.
Speakers: Sonus Faber Olympica II
Integrated Amp: Pass Labs INT-25
DAC: Pro-Ject Dac Box S2+
Speaker Cables: Kimber 8VS Bi-Wire
Power cable: Kimber PK10 Base
Interconnects: Audioquest Tower
I must say I'm very happy with the music coming out of my speakers but It's obvious that the DAC is not the same league as the rest of the equipment.
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Your biggest bottleneck is probably using the computer as your source, and adding a good streamer will make a huge improvement and probably more than upgrading your DAC. That said, for around $3k you could add both this Innuos streamer and Gustard DAC and you’ll be in a whole new world of performance. Also, ditch Tidal and give Qobuz a try. Just my $0.02 FWIW, and best of luck. |
I have a pretty similar setup with Olympica Nova II powered by Pass XP12 and XA30.8 and it sounds really great. I understand the XA25 should also be excellent with our Olympicas. As for the digital front-end, your system will respond to and be very revealing with every improvement you make there. After having had a Schiit Yggdrasil,I was able to get a 2nd hand dCS Bartok. Definitely no regrets and if I could stretch to a Rosinni I'd get it tomorrow. You could consider a Holo May KTE as it also works really well with Pass and Sonus faber. Denafrips don't do it for me. |
Gustard R26. Built in streamer end point , bluetooth, usb, coax, I2S inputs. BNC to add external clock. Most reviewers rate on par with any out there up to 6K. I have it and live it. Can’t give you a comparison as this is my first major dac. All for $1500! If you want to spend more add the external click and a fiber media conversion for the lan input. |
With the right streamer & DAC there should be a major improvement, but then cleaning up power and the right cabling will again improve things. Maybe visit some dealers and get an idea of where you want to go…not what you want to buy. Great buying from a local dealer, but take the money consideration out of the equation when shopping for where you want to go with your system. |
I’d say your source should be on the level of your amp and speakers. I use Bricasti M3 DAC with a built in Roon compatible Network Player. Since you are using your PC as a roon core, you can kill two birds with one stone with something like the M3 - upgrade the DAC and get rid of a computer as a streamer. The improvement will be very substantial. |
I really wasn’t referring to an all in one solution, but that would be one option. I guess that a reasonable response would be how much are you willing to spend? I suspect that your budget will determine the answer in that your system would probably benefit from a major upgrade to both your streamer and DAC. |
Thank you for your replay. I couldn't agree with you. The pass labs make the biggest improvement in my listening experience. Previously owned class D Primare I35 prisma. The pass wiped the floor with the Primare in terms of Dynamics, Grunt, Authority, Soundstage. You really should listen to Pass amp(s) to see what am I talking about.
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