UPGRADE PATH FROM CHORD QUTEST
My system currently consists of the following:
1. Martin Logan 11A impression hybrid electrostatic speakers.
2. Bryston 4B3 cubed power amplifier
3. Rogue Audio RP-1 preamp
4. Lumin U2 mini transport streamer
5. Chord Qutest Dac
Happy with the sound, but on many tracks on Qoboz the sound especially on rock leaves a lot to be desired. This could be the function of the source itself (the recording) is poor. Would a better DAC yield more detail and better sound? My price limit is about $5000.00. Not looking to buy used. Wish to work with a dealer because I have found them to be incredibly helpful. Also looking for a company that provides phone customer support. There is nothing like a conversation or a discussion to solve an issue. I understand that my view is a minority view out there. As we are in a self-service world. But I am used to a person picking up the phone and asking how can I help you? Any thoughts would be sincerely appreciated. Thank you.
First - This is an old, but interesting read/review on DACs. Please read it through to the end. https://www.stereophile.com/content/borderpatrol-digital-analogue-converter-se Two considerations for rocking: Get a second set of speakers that are more suited to rocking (someone mentioned JBLs) to swap with your MLs when you have the itch. (I have Maggies and ProAcs to swap). and/or Get a serious sub or 2 (I have a Rythmic 15 in sealed sub) and high pass the amp to your mains at say 50Hz.
|
@g2the2nd Thanks for the link. I find it interesting comparing the different deliveries of the dacs. |
Nine times out of ten, if you’re disappointed with how a specific genre performs on your system, the speakers, the room, or both are the main culprit. Following those, the likely problem is your amplification and its synergy with your speakers.
|
@kjl1065 I used to have the Qutest with Rogue RP1, Rogue ST100’driving Martin Logan Montis. Streamer was Lumin U1 Mini. Very close to your setup. |
