Need help selecting a system with Tidal streaming (Maybe MQA) and speakers for around $1k.


A’goners,

Need some help getting this temp system purchased. In about 2 weeks will be moving to a small home in SoCal, then in 6 months back to Pacific NW apartment most likely for 5 months. My room sizes will be small to medium, 10x12-14ft. This will be my system for these two moves then possibly relegated to a bedroom/listed on this site once I get to a permanent location.

My main goal is to limit my expenditure (as I will need to upgrade my old system once I have a permanent place) and spend around $1k for this system. I’m new to digital but streaming seems the way to go so I don’t have to drag around CDs or LPs and I don’t have any high rate digital files, nor do I plan on purchasing many during my traversing the West Coast. I plan on streaming Tidal and was hoping MQA if that fits in the budget and the system is able to perform well enough to discern the MQA difference. I know I could use a computer as a source for this but don’t currently own one and there goes the budget if I purchase a new laptop.

I understand the $1k can be quite limiting and could stretch it a bit but would really like to stay in that ballpark. I started looking at powered speakers, Vanatoo One, Paradigm Shift A2, Audioengine A2+, A5+, HD6 and passives like HDP6, Elac B6, QAcousics 3020, Kef Q150, Monitor Audio Bronze 2, Warfedale Diamond 220 and Focal Aria 905 all because of size, price and recommendation. I haven’t listened to any of these except the Elacs. Not having the time now to listen to some/all these I am asking for some experienced, sage advice on the speakers and whole system direction. I am aware that stand mounted/bookshelf speakers will be a sacrifice in the deep bass( not a bass head anyway) but would like to have some accuracy and a good wide soundstage if possible.

That brings me to the source and I understand it’s based on if I go the powered vs passive speaker route. I’m not sure if it’s possible to go the passive speaker route and still get Tidal streaming and integrated amp for the budget stated. This is where I get stuck, so please respond with your ideas even if it’s to say it can’t be done for the budget I have.

BTW, I listen to mostly rock, jazz, blues, and classical in that order if that helps. Any suggestions greatly appreciated.

Thanks greatly for your input. Please let me know if this is in the wrong category, since it was about speakers and source wasn’t sure where to post.

revreed

Showing 3 responses by mesch

Let's start at the source, forgetting MQA, what inexpensive devices will stream Tidal and other networks into a DAC? 
I would lean towards the powered speaker option with an all-in one DAC/pre/amp streaming device. I will be looking forward to seeing the recommendations for one. 

I must say that a laptop computer into a pair of powered speakers serves your situation nicely. Afterthought, some powered speakers have an internal DAC. 
I know there are many options for a streamer, however I use my Macbook for streaming, which I don't do much of and therefore can't offer much advice. If looking for one I would likely look towards the Bluesound Node 2. It has it's own DAC and seems to be highly regarded. Cost is $500.

Stereophile has a review of the Outlaw RR2160 in the latest issue. I have not read it yet, just received. 

It seems to me that you must first decide between amplification and speakers vs. powered speakers.  Them focus on the source. 
A system is simpler with powered speakers, however provides less flexibility than separate amp. Though I recall suggesting powered speakers, after further thought, placing myself in your shoes, I think I would purchase a used integrated amplifier and speakers. Then search for a streamer with internal DAC. This gives the greatest flexibility in placement of system into rooms you don't yet live in, and best accommodates use of the components in a secondary system down the road. 

Good luck in your search.