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Weak Link in chain as I upgrade from mid-fi?

This is a long post but want to be thorough in giving my setup and thoughts on it. Any feedback or thoughts welcome:

I finally caved and started to invest in a stereo setup after years dedicated to head-fi. Currently it's a 'starter' 2 way system focused entirely on digital and I'm pretty happy with it but want to sort of map out a good upgrade path, and am curious what if any 'obvious' weaker links I have in my chain...if theres something I could make a singular upgrade for and notice improvements without having to change a whole lot at once

Currently:

SF Sonetto i
Arcam SA-20 for amp + dac
Bluesound Node 2i for streaming/Roon
Marantz CD-5005 for transport

I love the SF...maybe Id endgame at Olympica Nova or Electa amator standmounts or Sonetto V floors. I generally subscribe to the thought of affording the most full range in a 2.0 possible before getting standalone subs but if theres a sub that would blend well with my current Sonetto i's musically id be interested to know about it.


The Arcam is a purchase Im also very happy with for now. I do want a bit more convenience of the sort the Sa30 would provide, Roon endpoint, wireless etc, but when I do upgrade amp might opt for standalone dac/streamer and better analog int amp.

The CD5005 I like enough but curious how much more Id need to spend to get noticeable improvement, especially given the other gear I have. I only use it as transport currently. I can't even tell what Im missing...beyond knowing just how much better a system could be overall from my local hifishop listening.

If it matters, I want to stick with integrated as I upgrade, and maybe endgame with a Luxman 505 or something all analog, which would mean a proper dac as well (maybe replace blue sound as well to get a nice dac/streamer?)

I will not anytime in the foreseeable future have a 'listening room'...it will for a long time be combined living room/tv/stereo setup.

Open to any feedback or thoughts! 

 

zander024

Showing 1 response by ucrazykid

ucrazykid's avatar
ucrazykid
55 posts
 

Just my thoughts.
first of all, you have done a good job building what you have. Second, I am so glad to see you did not mention cabling as I don’t think they really make a bit of difference at this level.
I would recommend a stand alone DAC. I would not get a DAC/streamer combo. Too much is changing in the streamer market to lock into a single dual use function. The Bluesound node will work fine with an outboard DAC. I suggest you look very closely at the offerings from Gustard. The x26 Pro ($1,500) for a delta-sigma DAC or the R26 ($1,650) if you want an R-2R/Multibit DAC. Both offer fantastic sound at a great price point. Lastly I would upgrade speakers. I always buy speakers for my NEXT amplifier as having them as the strongest link is always the best path IMO. If you like the Sonus Faber sound, have a look at the Dynaudio line of speakers. I feel they offer more value in speakers with out flashy leather wrapped cabinets, etc. personally I prefer stand mounts. I own Dynaudio Confidence C1 Platinums (now discontinued). I would suggest trying the Dynaudio Contour 20 or 20i, Heritage Soecial, or the Confidence 20. All are amazing 2-ways and can run alone or be complimented by a sub for only the lowest octaves as they go down to ~35Hz.

enjoy the journey.

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