Looking for a streaming DAC around 4k
Hi all:
It all started when I decided to upgrade my Bluesound Node 2i to an Eversolo DMP-A6. I loved the sexy touchscreen, internal SSD, etc. of the Eversolo. What I wasn’t prepared for was an immediate and obvious improvement in sound, especially in vocals. Vocals were much easier to understand, more clear. This was even obvious when I hooked it up to my second system, a Marantz HT receiver and a pair of ancient Dynaudio speakers. It was so obvious my wife noticed at once, just walking by.
So I’ve been wondering if upgrading to a better streaming DAC would give me another major improvement. I’m retired so I can’t make any $ystem wide improvements, and my system, by the standards of what I see here, is very modest to begin with. Also, I need my system to fit into a certain cabinet, so I need a one piece DAC/Streamer, I can’t have separates.
Current system:
Integrated Amp: Marantz PS11S1, from their Reference series, about 2007. I like that it has both MM and MC inputs.
CD Player: Marantz SA-15S1, ditto. I like that it will handle SACDs and it has a digital out that I would try and run thru the new DAC.
Current DAC/streamer: Eversolo DMP-A6
Speakers: Dynaudio Focus 220s, the original model.
Turntable: Not really applicable here, but I have a Basis 2000 deck with a Vector 3 arm and an Aria MC cartridge (forgot the exact model).
My budget would be under $5k total, so let’s call it $4k plus sales tax. I have no problem buying used. I would love internal SSD storage. I would also love it I could use my standard .m3u playlists with said internal storage. Love sexy touchscreens even if I mostly use the app on a tablet. Lol. I don’t have Roon and no plans to get it.
What do you think? Thanks!
The MOON has a USB-B (for computer connections) and it’s controlled via its MIND2 controller and app.
|
If you really like the touchscreen I would check out the Hifi Rose 150b. If you can do without the touchscreen the Lumins are very nice (like the T2-3) or Bryston 3.14. By the way, if you have a bunch of SACDs, while your Marantz won’t do it, down the road if you picked up something like an Oppo or Sony with HDMI outputs, the Bryston will take a DSD stream out of the SACD player. So in a way, something like the Bryston could help you future proof a little bit if/when your Marantz quits. Or you could just buy a new SACD player! |
I would suggest you reach out to Juan @blisshifi who has an Auralic Vega G2.1 he took in on trade. I’m quite familiar with Auralic and this particular model. It’s streaming function is quite good and its DAC section is fully competitive with other DACs in the $7-$8k range. He’s asking right w/in your budget. The Lightning DS native music management software is very good, but it’s also Roon certified if you prefer that route. Best, |
