2. digital
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Theta/Spectra/Avalon - system revamp advice needed

Because of my living situation I was forced to place my system (Spectral DMA180.1 & DMC-30, Avalon Radian HC, MIT 850(?) tri-wire, Theta DSPro Gen Va) in storage 7+ years ago and live with a very, very modest system. Listening is 100% CDs: jazz, rock/pop, folk, blues, a little classical here and there. New listing room is 20x20 w/high ceiling and very live.

I've been out of touch with the audiophile hobby for 10+ years, so I'm not up on the latest and greatest. Pretty much always stuck with buying used to stretch my $. Never felt I needed to have the latest equipment (still don't), just go for great stuff and usually stick with it for a while. Think I want to stick with the Radians and the DMA180.

Do you guys suggest I:

- stick with what I have and simply add a transport or CD player w/digital out? If so, recommendations? My budget is $1000.

- sell the Theta DAC & Spectral preamp and upgrade to a DSPre Gen VIII/preamp w/transport?

Any other suggestions welcome.

Thanks,

Gary
schotbus

Showing 3 responses by joeabrams

joeabrams
132 posts
 
The manual for your DMA-180 was written BEFORE MIT released the Oracle interconnects with adjustable impedance-matching switches. Now that you can tailor the impedance-matching, the Oracles will be perfectly compatible, and will have performance FAR superior to 350 UL. Hope this helps.
joeabrams
132 posts
 
First a disclaimer: I'm an MIT dealer.
The system you describe is a genuine classic and is capable -- even now -- of near-SOTA performance in all areas except deep bass. The change I'd suggest, especially in terms of bang-for-bucks, is to upgrade your interconnects from (I'm guessing) MIT/Spectral 350 Series to MIT's current Oracles, such as the V2.2. Possibly upgrade your Digital cable at the same time. If you'd like to discuss options, you can call me toll-free at 1-888-737-4434.
joeabrams
132 posts
 
Dear Gary,
Getting to your question of 12/4 -- I can't argue with your logic; I have a Theta Gen8 driving my Portal Paladin monos. BUT -- one of the strong points of the Gen8 is its balanced output; one the strong points of the Spectral amp is its RCA input -- not an ideal situation. ALSO, if you go to the Theta without a preamp, you will have several digital inputs, but only ONE analog input.
Hope this helps.
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