2. amps-preamps
  3. 195585-135225

My last rodeo

Ready to buy new equipment after 20 years without.

I'm going to take this in steps and it may take me a year to a point where only minor tweaks may be all that remains. Ultimately, I may have about 30K available. 

I want to start with amp and speakers by telling you what I had. MFA 200C mono blocks, Audio Concepts Saffire III's with a pair of powered Sub 1's. The reason I mention this is because I was pleased with the results. As a matter of fact, I looked forward to coming home from work everyday to enjoy the music. A similar or better match would be great. Thanks

 

tburdwin

Showing 2 responses by kennyc

kennyc
2,104 posts
 

Seems like the OP needs a new audio chain:

  • server/streamer
  • DAC
  • preamp
  • amp
  • speakers
  • cabling
  • maybe power conditioning 

Decisions​​​​​​​:

  1. tube vs SS
  2. Separates vs integrated (preamp+amp). Integrates saves on casework and cabling, but less flexibility in upgrading vs separates.  Integrates built in DACs are often subpar to stand alone DACs since they are often built as an afterthought to a cost point, but a few integrates have good DACs.  Even fewer integrates have a built in streamer.

Starting from scratch, one can choose amp first then speakers, or speaker first then amp (which is my preference)

Both speaker and amp choices are highly subjective- there are many great sounding components, but few that would subjectively resonates with you (pulls you into the music).  So best to demo yourself to find what you like.  Check out high-end audio stores and audio shows like AXPONA.

kennyc
2,104 posts
 

@tburdwin - you are correct.  In my speakers search, in addition to audio shows I went to many high-end brink n mortar stores in the Bay Area and LA area - many storefronts.  Likely the Seattle/Tacoma 
 

The Pacific Audio Fest may be the closest local audio show. 

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