2. digital
  3. 184146-182023

Just Getting Back Into Audio and Need Help

So I am getting ready to purchase a new Integrated Amp and speakers after not having a system for quite a while. Things have changed(A LOT) since I last had a system. I am deciding between an Arcam SA20, Parasound Newclassic 200, or Musical Fidelity M3Si integrated. I am probably getting the Focal Aria 906’s. My question is, what kind of sound quality would i get by using something like the Wiim Pro running to the internal dac on the integrated amp? Do I need a separate external dac? I really prefer not to have to do that. Or should i spend a little more on a streamer with a good dac? Will the sound be that much better than using the dac on the integrated? Thats probably a loaded question. I want good audio quality, but I’m not one to spend a fortune on cables and other upgrades. If I have to struggle to hear minor differences, I’m not spending the extra money. Thanks in advance for the help!

jmill88

Showing 2 responses by dcevans

dcevans
178 posts
 

I noticed on Audiogon that Underwood Hifi is offering the MicroMega M-One 100 new for only $1999 ($3000 below list). This integrated like Focal is manufactured in France, and has been featured in audio shows with the Focal Sopra 2, considerably up the Focal line from Aria collection. The streamer per Underwood is not very good, the only weak point.  

dcevans
178 posts
 

I am a fan of Focal speakers. I would be a little wary of pairing them with class D amplification such as the Parasound you mentioned — out of concern that you will end up with too much of a good thing, with a hyper-detailed, fatiguing and possibly bright sound. Crutchfield is currently offering the 906 on sale for a savings of $440. If it were me, I would use the savings toward a Bluesound Node2 DAC/streamer and look at a class A/B integrated. While I agree that a Hegel integrated with internal DAC would be a good investment and would likely pair very well with the Focals, it would be outside your budget based on the integrated amps you are considering. Of the ones you are considering with the Focals, I would highly favor Musical Fidelity. The onboard DAC is a weak point however from what I have read. So total investment with sale price on Focal 906 and Bluesound Node would be $4000. This would be a truly musical system. Good luck!!!

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