2. amps-preamps
  3. 166450-150517

Integrated Amp upgrade path

I’m currently using a Macintosh MC 8900 to drive Vandersteen Treo CT’s, with a six pack of Rel S510’s, streaming only.  I understand Boulder will shortly have a software upgrade for the 866 that will include an Air Play equivalent to allow full use of most streaming services.  Looking for thoughts from anyone with experience with the 866:  how much of an an SQ improvement with this upgrade?  Incremental?  Immediately noticeable?  Thanks for any help!
cosmic_charlie

Showing 4 responses by arafiq

arafiq's avatar
arafiq
1,599 posts
 
Yamaha is not really a good match for the OP’s excellent system. Consider streamers from Lumin, Innuos, Aurender, Sonore, Sotm, etc. 
arafiq's avatar
arafiq
1,599 posts
 
Also Simaudio Mind Network Player is very good. 
arafiq's avatar
arafiq
1,599 posts
 
@mrklas - I’ve heard nothing but praise for the Mind2. Can you elaborate in what way it is better than the Node? I would love to audition this component sometime in the next few weeks. 
arafiq's avatar
arafiq
1,599 posts
 
@mrklas -- thank you for the details. Given the rate of change in the digital audio industry, especially when it comes to streamers and DAC, I've so far been of the opinion that we should keep them separate for ultimate flexibility. Did you try to use the MIND2 purely as a streamer feeding to your Mac DAC? 
More to discover