2. pc-audio
  3. 1217690337

SB Duet Sound Quality Improvement?

Recently set up the duet. Originally went rca and found the s/q acceptable but not close to my cd player. Switched to digital optical and the sound opened up. Image front to back and side to side became stable and well spaced, bass had the presence that I am accustomed to and the mids sounded very good. Only downside noticed so far are the highs. There is an etched grating quality that I want to tame and I feel that there is more to be had. Many seem to think the squeezebox is capable of replacing high end cd players given the right approach.
Current system:
sb receiver to Lite Dac Ah to B&K Reference 20 to Bryston 3bst to Gallo 3.1.
I'm thinking about a tubed dac or linear power supply to tame the highs and possibly round out the other areas. Which would be the best starting point?
Have just begun looking at tubed dac's and the paradisea seems to get very good reviews but I am open to suggestions. Price range will be less than $700.00 and used is fine.
Thanks
Steve
scoly1

Showing 3 responses by scoly1

scoly1 OP
74 posts
 
Tvad
May have overstated when I said "high end" though I have seen those claims. I will never have high end but would like to approach.
Audioengr
So an upgaded power supply may be the better first step? Then look into the digital output upgrade?
Thanks
Steve
scoly1 OP
74 posts
 
MR Bill
I've looked at the acopian ps that has been recommended. The one I saw was $100. Is that the one you recommend?
Do you have a high end dac recommendation?
Thanks
Steve
scoly1 OP
74 posts
 
Drubin
First connection was rca out from sb to the prepro. Even my wife noticed that sq was considerably less than with the cd player (arcam). We then connected the optical out from sb to the Lite dac ah and dac's rca to the pre. Much improved.
Mr Bill
Thanks for the recommendations. Will do some checking.

Audioengnr
Is there a reclocker for a moderate price that would solve some of the issues?
I am not at the level that the sound needs to rival a $10000 setup but would like to head that direction.

Balancing a h/t with 2 channel is certainly a challenge. If what I need is a new pre that would be fine as long as it moves me in the right direction.
Thanks
Steve
More to discover