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UPGRADE TIME!! Preamp vs. Speakers???

Good day audio nutz!
this could be in Speakers OR preamps category but dont know how to post in both..?

I have one I would like your opinions in cracking...
I am considering upgrading either the speakers from Focal ARIA 948 to the new SOPRA n2 (after a demo) OR
upgrading my Simaudio preamp from 350p to the 740P.
The 2 Sim 400m monoblocs and W4S dac DSD SE  would remain.

My questions:
1. What would be the best "bang for buck"?
2. witch option do YOU think would be most noticeable?

I REALLY LOVE the Sim/ Focal sound so I want to stay in those brands I just want MORE of it..
things to consider I get about a 10% discount on gear
the speakers I would get full trade in cost of $5K
The 350P preamp I would get "most" back in the trade up program (plus 10% discount)

Ok let me have it!
and Thank you!
rolling18

Showing 1 response by ddafoe

ddafoe
259 posts
 
I can't comment on the difference for the speaker upgrade, but I can comment on adding a 740P to my system.   I used both  a Pass XP10 and Hegel P20 with my Pass X250.8 amp before getting a 740P preamp and the enjoyment of my system jumped up significantly.   More so than I would have imagined considering the other two preamps are great for their MSRPs.   If you factor in the MSRP of the 740P and the fact that my DAC and many others sound great direct, the $$ spent for the preamp (basically just a volume control in my case) may not be the best value.   But in relative terms to upgrades I've had in my system with respect to electronics and pricey cables, the 740P certainly was worth the price.    The depth and space around the instruments and vocals with the 740P in the system is pretty impressive and I know I would greatly miss it.
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