System advice


Haven’t been in forums in years. Previous audiophile that got burned out from audio fever of chasing the grail of audio nirvana. Previous system was Merlin VSM MXE with Ars sonum filharmonia with cardas golden ref cables. Interested in getting a quality 2 channel system. Requirement are full range speakers, integrated amp which can be tube or SS, and high end streaming device. No hard media will be used. I want this to be simple with fewer components/cables. Dac in amp or streaming device. Will be used in dedicated room that shares my HT. Will buy preowned from here. Typically listen to classical, jazz, crooners, acoustic. Budget 12-15k. 

jhurst

Showing 2 responses by kennyc

+1 @soix great suggestions. Both Hegel and Joseph Audio have plenty of very positive reviews 

This used Aesthetix Mimas is a fantastic buy. Aesthetix are known for a fantastic preamp and the DAC card got great reviews.  If you don’t need the phono card you can sell it.  

Whoops, forgot to post link:

https://tmraudio.com/components/integrated-amplifiers/aesthetix-mimas-stereo-tube-hybrid-integrated-amplifier-mm-mc-phono-dac/

@ghdprentice 

When trying to climb the DAC ladder on my limited budget, I was so blessed to be able to purchase a used Linn DSM/2 with the Organix DAC upgrade for about $12.5k.  Feels like I got a ridiculously great sonic bargain.