2. digital
  3. 153354-29363

Streamer and DAC for Mcintosh MC462 and C22

Hi I have been upgrading my system.  

I have an MC462 Amp, C22 Pre and Revel 228BE speakers.

Currently I am running a node 2 into a Berkeley Alpha dac 2 for streaming.

I am going to upgrade these 2 and I am trying to decide what to buy.  

Either a 1 piece combo like a Lumin or a streamer and dac.  

My budget is 10 to 15K.

Some of the Dacs I have been looking at:

Chord TT2 and M scaler
Aqua 
Lumin S1 or X1
Total Dac

Streamers include:

Lumin U1or U1 mini
Moon Mind 2
Auralic G1 or G2
Innuos

I would say I lean more toward analog sound.  I would like something I can listen to without fatigue.

Basically question 1 - 1 box or 2?

And what to buy ?

Any thoughts would be appreciated.




efoo

Showing 6 responses by efoo

efoo OP
102 posts
 
Long term report Bartok sounds fantastic.  Have been running it with the C22 in the chain into the MC462.

Will try it without the C22 right into the amp at some point.

Great for tidal and my wife loves the ease of spotify.


efoo OP
102 posts
 
Thanks for the all the input.  

Some great suggestions.

I will check out the DCS Bartok sounds interesting.

I also like the Aqua/innuos and the Lumin/Chord suggestions.

I was actually looking at the Lumin T2 tonight as well.  Wondering if a $4500 product can get me 90% of the 15K combos.

I have a lot of research to do and will keep you posted,




efoo OP
102 posts
 
Is anyone using the DCS Bartok as a preamp?
efoo OP
102 posts
 
Thanks I have a line on a DCS Bartok at a good price so I may just go for it.  The one box will work well with my current rack.  Going to try it with and without the C22.  I can always use the C22 in another system if I don't end up needing it with the Bartok.
efoo OP
102 posts
 
I ordered the Bartok yesterday... will try it with the C22 and without.

The combination of 1 box plus long product life cycle made it a worthwhile investment.

Plus I got a great price on one that was in stock so I should have it this week.

I will report back when I have had a chance to break it in.
efoo OP
102 posts
 
Th Bartok arrived and sounds wonderful.  I am very happy with the purchase now I have to figure out if I need the C22 in the chain or just use the Bartok as the pre.  


More to discover