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setting requirements for my streaming DAC+"preamp"/volume control and suggestions

Hi all,

I'm in the process of building my first high end system from scratch and need some help setting requirements and suggestions on the streaming DAC/preamp question.

After much auditioning I've already decided I like the presentation of Wilson Audio Sabrina speakers paired with a Mcintosh 452 amp to drive them in a relatively big room. I listen to a lot of electronic music and here is the kicker - I listen exclusively to streaming. No phono, no radio, no CDs, no tape. Maybe at some point cached streaming but that's it.

I am trying to decide how to best choose a streaming DAC and preamp/volume control (technically I'm willing to break out the streamer, DAC and preamp if necessary but not starting there). So far I have heard a Linn Selekt + Katalyst with the exact equipment above and liked it.  I could stop searching here but I'm not sure if I'm paying for features I don't need or can achieve the same or better for slightly less or more.   My thought at present is that I should look at streaming DACs with volume controls, no preamp (which I could always add later - or never).

  • is writing off the idea of getting a preamp separate at this point foolish?  
  • what 'requirements' do I need to set for the volume control/preamp portion of my streaming DAC (or streamer + DAC)? Is there anything I need to think about 'pairing' it with the McIntosh or can I be assured that any DAC with a volume control will be OK and just a question of what I like with my ears?   I honestly I don't even know how to determine exactly if a DAC has an analog preamp or a digital volume control when reading specs and if both are ok.  (please enlighten)
  • knowing that I definitely like what I heard in the Linn Selekt + Katalyst with my exact equipment are there brands or models I should consider either (i) in an attempt to save money or spend a little more to get the same kind of presentation or (ii) in an attempt to contrast the presentation with the Linn plus the gear I know I'm getting? I can tell from my speaker evaluation and with the music I like I clearly like faster more articulate presentations but I don't know where that hits a limit of too much so I'm open to anything at this point.  I'd just like to start grouping my choices.

Apologies for the long post. I hope I stated my requirements cleanly enough.


gryphonite
seigen's avatar
seigen
52 posts
 
Based on your needs I'd try the dCS Bartok DAC/streamer.

It has a digital volume control with different output reference levels available set in the analog domain, to ensure proper gain matching with the amplifier and avoid a lot of digital attenuation.
yyzsantabarbara
4,819 posts
 
The question of whether to use a preamp or a DAC with a volume control is like asking which religion is better. After many years of using both types of systems I realized I like a preamp in the mix.

I have heard the Linn Selekt DSM and it is rather good. However, I was only interested in that unit because of the DSP feature, SPACE OPTIMIZATION. You do not mentioned a need for that in your post. Linn is a little higher priced than some other competitors that do not have DSP but have good sounding DACs.

You mentioned not paying for features you do not need. Not sure if you are aware of this but the Linn Selekt DSM can be ordered without the amplification module. I think the only option you would want is the Katalyst.
gryphonite OP
10 posts
 
@yyzsantabarbara 

Definitely aware of the ability to go without amplification, ty.  

It's hard for me to quantify how much of what I enjoyed with the Linn was "character" of the DSP and DAC vs  how much was strictly the competence of the electronics in the volume control.   Part of me is tempted to look at lower priced streaming DACs or DACs plus streamers but I am having a hard time evaluating the electronics and whether they will be appropriate with the mcintosh amp.

mzkmxcv
777 posts
 
MiniDSP SHD

OktoResearch DAC8 DSP 
 
If you don’t want DSP, then there are many other options.
gryphonite OP
10 posts
 
Ok rookie question - I thought DSP was only for home theater type applications.  I can see that @yyzsantabarbara highlighted Space Optimizaton on the Linn but I thought that was only if you had one of a set of approved speakers.   I don't think I was hearing that with Sabrinas and a McIntosh amp (was I?).

If that's right, I don't think I have an opinion on what DSP would buy me.  I guess I'd say my focus is on selecting the best DAC and volume circuitry for my amp and streaming-only application but I am also open to other additions that are worth my consideration.
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