Test

Thanks!

I’ve just initiated one of the best fixes I’ve ever done.  I swapped my Benchmark DAC 3B for the Benchmark DAC3 HGC with a volume control function on it.  I’ve never had a volume remote control before.  I’ve always had to get up and down to change volume (due to the fact that I have an upgraded vintage 1990’s preamp.).   
What a difference!  Every recording has a unique dynamic character.  Now I can effortlessly change the sound to fit the performance.

@rvpiano This is awesome. Congrats. Remote volume is a great thing, as everything we listen to has a different output level from one other. I know you experimented with bypassing your CJ preamp (going passive) and preferring the preamp. Your dac is a very good preamp, with gain, so I am wondering if you will try and bypass the CJ again, going direct from the dac into the power amp. By doing this, you will eliminate the CJ line gain stage, a 2nd volume control (that of the CJ). and one less pair of interconnects. The gain settings on the dac are numerous (internally adjustable) so I am not suggesting stressing over it.....but I would, again, eliminate the CJ for a bit, and use the dac as a preamp straight into the AHB2. For phono listening, you would connect the tape out (rec out) of the CJ, into an analog input of the dac, using the CJ as a phono preamp. I am terribly sorry for bringing any of this up, but this is what I would do....I am a terrible person....In the meantime, enjoy! My best, MrD. 

@mrdecibel 

First of all, you are certainly NOT a terrible person.  You’ve certainly been a very helpful person to me. 
Believe it or not I’ve been getting some incredible advice from ChatGPT.  It was that AI source that suggested I obtain the new Benchmark DAC with remote audio capacity.  AND, they outlined the best use of the volume control on the preamp. They suggested that I turn the volume control way up on the CJ to between 2 and 3 o’clock thereby getting the best sound from the high quality tubed preamp. Then, adjust the Benchmark DAC accordingly. The results are wonderful.  Best sound I’ve yet gotten.

@rvpiano 

Happy to hear your audio journey going well. I had tried many streamers too. Tried all, the Eversolo models, up to the A8. Tried the Hi Rose 130 Transport and really wanted to like it. I did not like the way that streamer rendered treble. The Aurender N200 was perfect to my ears. After a while I got the itch and got a good deal on a new N20. I love this streamer so much,it’s my end game for now. 

@dwest1023 

Thank you for your kind words.

How does the N20 stack up against the N200?