Using a streamer to DAC to power amp, should I insert an integrated


Really hoping to get some guidance and opinions on my little mid-fi setup.

i have both a Pioneer and Marantz vintage receivers with JBL L112 speakers.  I’ve been streaming from my MacBook and iPad into a (really old, but wonderful) Burson DA-160 DAC.  It sounded very good, but, I was afraid I really wasn’t getting most out of the JBLs as I was only sporting 45 watts.  JBL recommends 300 watts, but of course also states they will work fine with 10 watts.  To make sure I wasn’t missing anything like “headroom availability”, I added a Rotel 140 watt power amp.  To free up the idevices, I purchased an Eversolo DMP-A8 streamer with a functional DAC, but not as good as the Burson in a few areas.  So I just ran the Eversolo USB digital out to the Burson and then into the Marantz (2230) and from there to the Rotel and speakers.  This was very good and allowed me the use of my coveted Loudness button.  Then I got to thinking, should I remove the receiver to get a more pure sound and forego the tone controls.  Especially since the Eversolo has DSP.  So I pulled the receiver out and lo and behold, it worked wonderfully once a added a smidge of bass to it.

Now, after reading many reviews and watching many videos, I am thinking about purchasing an Audiolab 9000a and taking out the Rotel amp.  In effect, I think, just replacing the Rotel amp for the Audiolab (100 watt) amp, along with its sound characteristics.  Is my logic flawed?

1strail

Showing 2 responses by ghdprentice

I would agree that an integrated amplifier would be a good choice. If you are interested in very good sound quality then one with only an amp and preamp. An integrated all in one is unlikely to sound great unless it is something like a Linn.

Contemporary NAD and Rotel integrated amps are good cost effective brands… made to sound good instead of compete on features and functions you do not need.