The next step to a better system


Hi everyone

I have been putting together a system for the last few years and need some of your wise and varied knowledge to help me take the next step.

My current system is

Harman Kardon HK990 intergrated

Revel F52 speakers

SVS PB12 NSD Sub

VPI Aries Scout with an Ortofon 2m Bronze mm cart

Herron VTPH 1mm phono preamp

Onkyo CDP DXC390

Belden BJC LC-1 interconnects

12 gauge, 87 strand, oxygen free copper speaker cables

Every step I've taken so far has lead me to a better audio listening place. 

I would also like to figure out the best way to introduce a good digital music source into my system. Currently I just hook up my smart phone through an Aux on the HK990 and listen to Pandora and Spotify. 

And of course I would like to improve on the analogue side of my system.

So any guidance would be helpful.

Thank for your time and knowledge

meambler

Showing 2 responses by marktomaras

For streaming consider the Bluesound Node 2 and a subscription to Tidal HiFi with uncompressed cd quality streams.  You can use the onboard DAC for starters or connect to a DAC of your choosing.

 On the analog front, I would say your cartridge may be interesting to upgrade. It seems your phono preamp can handle a moving coil cartridge, so perhaps a nice step up in that department would be very worthwhile.  I highly recommend the Lyra Delos.
I like the idea of the cambridge 851D and the similar Sony, but I feel constrained by such a unit.  I like the idea of a separate DAC and a separate streamer or small computer.  For now I use a mac mini and external HD to stream to my PS Audio DAC.  I am using Tidal hifi as well as my own ripped CD collection all controlled by Roon, which I adore.  Who knows, in the future, I may opt for a streamer such as an auralic or a blue sound instead of the mac mini.  I think that the ability to change the streaming style and software is nice to keep independent from the DAC.  In my case, I may want to change the streaming part and keep the same DAC or vice versa, and at different times.  All that said, that seems like a killer deal on the 851D that you found!  Almost too good to pass up, and just try on for size.  It will be challenging to find a quality DAC and decent streamer that cheap. (though possible I guess with a used Bluesound Node version 1 and a used, reasonably priced DAC).