Opinions needed; which is a better choice and why?

Hello Meby, I have been reading about your quest and it looks like you have getting some good advise. My two cents: If you can try to audition some of the Meadowlark audio spkrs. I have the Kestrals and to me one of the best bang for the buck items out there. I'm also glad you enjoyed the AR gear. I have a LS7 that I really enjoy. I believe there is a used one at Jeffs sound values. He is on Agon and great to deal with. Godd luck with your search.

Hi Meby, I cannot comment on the latest gear from AR however my LS7 replaced a Anthem pre2L I had. It a musical pre that tells me what my front end is doing. Currently using some tungsram tubes that are very good. I would like to tweak the coupling caps with some infini caps if I can find them. That drive will be well worth it because the Kestrals do sound great. Well built spkrs that love tubes. Let me know what you think.

Hey Meby, I have a seperate transport and dac. To me the logic is that each piece is doing what it was designed for. Hence a one box player depending on price MAY not equal seperates. I always see the PD65 advertised as a great transport yet it's a one box player. Yes jitter may play a factor but with units from AA,Monarchy and others that issue can be addressed. Hope this helps Meby.