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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 7 responses by mesch

mesch
3,529 posts
 
On the digital side, consider getting into computer audio and the purchase of an external DAC. Both Computer and your CDP could be run through the DAC. Essentially, you would be taking the same route you did with analog, replacing the internal phonostage with a better external one.

On the analog side, you may want to try a different cartridge, one that mates well with your tonearm and phonostage.
mesch
3,529 posts
 
Just had an after thought, I believe your HK has a DAC and coax input. Is that true? If so, you could purchase a USB/SPDIF converter and run it directly into your amp as a way to get into computer audio inexpensively. For streaming internet radio this approach might suffice. I have purchased several used converters here on AG for under $100. It would make an excellent device for Redbook CD or internet radio playback.
mesch
3,529 posts
 
What would you consider as a budget for a DAC? You will need a coax input for your CD player (thinking it has coax digital out) and asynchronous USB for computer.   I currently playback only redbook CD quality files, wether via computer or disc player. I am using a Bryston BDA-1 DAC with a USB/SPDIF converter for computer. At the time I purchased my DAC (2011) I felt there were 2 ways to go, buy an older DAC lacking asyn USB and use the converter, or, buy a New DAC. I wanted one with a quality power supply and analog output stage so I bought used and added the converter. Today there are many quality USB DACs available at all budget levels. As one option, I would check out Schiit Audio DACs. Again, what is your budget?
mesch
3,529 posts
 
Seems like a great deal on the 851D! Upgrading your CD player and allowing for computer access in one box. Minimizes cable needs also. Does this unit have USB input? 
mesch
3,529 posts
 
Sorry,i was confused with the 851C.  I also believe using the 851D as DAC with your Onkyo would be an improvement. Use a quality 1.5 meter coax cable. 

In as much as I believe the 850D represents good value at your quoted price, if you are not interested in having preamp function, there are many DAC options available for ~$800.

My limited attempt at describing DSD. DSD is direct stream digital with bits delivered 1 at a time at very fast rates, as apposed to PCM which is Pulse Code Modulation where bits (1s vs. 0s) are served in bytes (8, 16, 24 32) at different sample rates (44.1, 48, and multiples thereof). PCM serves redbook CD and internet streaming, DSD serves SACD and other forms of hi-rez file formats. There are several other on this forum who could provide a better explanation.
mesch
3,529 posts
 
Congrats on the Oppo! 

I don't stream that often, use Pandora with our living room system. I would like to try Spotify which allows listening to entire albums. I believe it costs~$10/mo however. 
mesch
3,529 posts
 
For 1 source on room treatments check out ATS Acoustics, Piper City, Illinois. I purchased from them the supplies to build my own panels. 
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