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Trying to get a general idea of SQ hierarchy for combo pre/DAC vs separate boxes

How does a combo preamp and DAC compare to separates? And do you spend more on the preamp or the DAC? I started out looking for comparisons of the PS Audio Stellar GDC because I liked the idea of its analogue volume control, but there are a lot of options. With separates I might upgrade my DAC first before I start messing with anything else. Here's a quick list with current prices on both sides of the GCD:

$ 900 - Schiit Saga ($300) & Bimby ($600)
$1500 - Schiit Freya+ ($900) & Bimby
$1550 - Schiit Saga & Gumby ($1250)
$1700 - PS Audio Stellar GCD
$2000 - Benchmark DAC3 L
$2150 - Schiit Freya+ & Gumby
$2200 - Mytek Brooklyn DAC+

Current system is Dynaudio Audience 82, Musical Fidelity A300 Integrated, Oppo BDP-105 for discs and DAC. Leaning toward a PrimaLuna power amp, either HP stereo or monoblocks . The list of speakers I want to listen only gets longer the more I read so I'm putting that off for a bit. Might try streaming and a dedicated server eventually. Most of my CDs are already ripped lossless on an SSD plugged into the Oppo, but the interface is heinous. Ripped files through the Oppo sound fine, but I really miss the AH! Njoe Tjoeb I had until the transport finally died. I think that may be what is making me want to go the tube amp route.
cat_doorman

Showing 1 response by 213runnin

213runnin
914 posts
 
I have to chime in here, as I’ve owned 2 Schiit pre’s with the relay volume feature. I’m not sure what a “driller” is or what one sounds like, though I own a few drills. I can emphatically say that Schiit’s volume design is not a loud intrusive noise when being adjusted.

There is a clicking noise and also the music is somewhat affected while you turn the knob, but that’s it. If one is constantly adjusting the volume during songs it may get tiresome, but there is more of a likelihood that a nearby partner will ask you to pick a volume level. Not that it’s ever happened between me and my wife.

The volume, and transparent sound of the Schiit pre’s, are what has me sold on them and planning yet another preamp purchase from Schiit. The performance of their components for price has them competing with the over $2000 range, at least with the Freya +.
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