2. digital
  3. 191182-2962

Upgrade to PS Audio Direcstream Mk1 and Mac Mini?

Looking at upgrading my digital sources and potentially getting a streamer.  My Mac Mini just died so I need to do something- I use that for streaming Roon and Qobuz. I am also reading the excellent reviews for the new PS Audio Direcstream Mk2. I have the Mk1. People have recommended Rose150B.  The Rose150B seems to be a great streamer, potentially not as good as a DAC as the PS Audio MK1/MK2 and not a great pre-amp.    If I added a pre-amp to my chain like the Lamm 2.1 would I see a material improvement in sound vs going "direct" via the DAC?    Trying to figure out, do I keep a mac mini type music server and upgrade to PS AudioDirectstream Mk2. Do I replace my PS Audio MK1 with a Rose150B or am I going to need a separate streamer and a separate DAC.  

My current system: 

PS AudioDirectStream DAC/Bridge2 - connected to MacMini music server running - using PS Audio device as pre-amp
Thiel 7.2 Speakers
Lamm M1.2 Monoblocks 
 

Thx

Malcolm 

mwthorne

Showing 2 responses by soix

soix
10,015 posts
 

Glad to hear the Lamm was an improvement but can’t say I’m at all surprised. Likewise I’m pretty sure you’re gonna hear very significant improvements with the Meitner as you’re likely making big upgrades to both DAC and streamer, both of which are very important and impactful. Please let us know your impressions if you could, and congrats on the new pre.

soix
10,015 posts
 

I’d have to think adding a good pre like the Lamm would bring significant improvements, but definitely something well worth a try.  You could do a trial of the new Spatial Audio Raven preamp that’s getting fantastic reviews.  I’d keep the streamer and DAC separate as you’ll have greater flexibility to pick a DAC with the sound characteristics you’re looking for.  

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