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Upgrade Time

I hate to post another integrated vs separates discussion but I could use some input. My current system is Olympica Nova II's, Cambridge 851N (streamer/DAC/preamp), Cambridge 651W (amp).

I'm planning on spending <$10K on my next component upgrade which I'm thinking will be a new amp. I'm curious how folks here would allocate that money. My initial thought is to use that money towards a separate amp and just go all in on that. In a year or two I can upgrade the preamp or DAC. I certainly wouldn't be spending more than $10K for this future upgrade. Probably closer to 5-8K but who knows, maybe I'll feel compelled to go big again.

Given how far integrateds have come, however, I'm wondering if I'd actually be better off spending the 10K going that route.

Either way, I'm curious to hear which models you recommend. 
jpearson3131

Showing 1 response by soix

soix
10,005 posts
 
Basically you are saying the Cambridge DAC/Pre-amp will significantly drag down even a $10K level amp...I wonder if others agree with this?
Uh, that’d be yes x 1000!!!  NEVER underestimate the importance of a preamp — it can make or break a system.  The DAC is up there two so you’d be doing a nice amp a disservice on both counts. 

This conversation needs to start with what sound characteristics are most important to you and what you’re looking to improve upon over what you are hearing now.  Otherwise — and as you can already see happening here now — you’re just going to get a wide range of personal preferences that may or may not have anything to do your own, which is basically useless or even counterproductive.  So start by stating your personal preferences and goals and you’ll get much better recommendations here.  My $0.02. 

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