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Integrating a DAC into an Analog System

I have an old school stereo system and stream Tidal and other digital sources using Logitech Media Server through a Logitech Squeezebox Duet.  My main system:  McIntosh - C31V A/V controller, MC2600 power amp, and MCD2007 CD player; Techniques SL-1600 MKII turntable;  Teac X-10R reel-to-reel; and Tannoy DC8Ti speakers.  I have about 1200 vinyl albums, about 500 CDs, and 16K songs on a Synology NAS. I'd like to keep what I have and replace the Duet with a decent DAC that, if possible, has a phono and RCA input.

The C31V has no digital inputs; it does have an equalizer that I still want to use.  Depending on the DAC, I will connect the turntable and reel-to-reel to the C31V.  I'd also like to use XLR cables from the DAC to the MC2600 instead of RCA cables from the C31V.  I can't think of a way to influence a digital signal via the C31V's equalizer when using XLR cables from the DAC.  Anyone know of a solution for that? 

If necessary, I'll buy a new pre-amp and DAC, or a pre-amp/DAC combo.  I'd like to spend less than $4,000 for whatever I buy.
oldschool1948

Showing 2 responses by oldschool1948

oldschool1948's avatar
oldschool1948 OP
507 posts
 
Simple is always good.  And I will plug a duet into whatever I buy.  

I'm retiring in August and have setup a listening room using my main system. I need a good DAC and acoustic treatment to finish phase 1.  My preference is the McIntosh C52.  It has everything I want, but the price is a bit too high.  The C47 and NAD M12 are on my shortlist.  If the Brooklyn DAC+ had one more analog input, it would be on my shortlist.

On a related noted, I use LMS to synchronize and stream music to 2 zones controlled by duets; 2 controlled by Raspberry PI DACs; and (via a LMS plug-in) 4 Riva WAND AirPlay enabled speakers.  Works great.
oldschool1948's avatar
oldschool1948 OP
507 posts
 
The ADL Stratos looks good on paper.  I will add it to my short list and try to audition it.  Thanks!
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