2. amps-preamps
  3. 154061-139155

Which combination of components (Streamer, DAC, Preamp, Amp, etc.) are most future-proof?

Hi all,

I’m in the process of gently upgrading my older, mid-fi system. I’ve started with speakers (Salk WOW1’s, REL 328 sub). I recognize that the amplification, cables, room, and source all need investment.

I’m focusing first on source(s) and how to serve them up. While I have a decent CD collection, mostly I’ve been streaming my music from ripped MP3 files and Spotify. I no longer have a working CD player. I know that higher resolution sources (lossless files or high quality streaming) is important. Re-ripping my collection may become a project.

So, here’s my question — a lot of reading has shown me a dizzying range of ways to go. Music servers/streamers, DAC, preamp, amp are available in many combinations. I’d like quality but am not inclined to spend tens of thousands of dollars; I resist going the "separates" route for *every* piece. So which combinations make the most sense? A streamer/DAC? A preamp/DAC? An integrated amp/DAC? Something else?

In addition to resisting separates, I’d like to invest in good components which won’t quickly be outdated. So, for example, if DAC’s are likely to evolve quickly, then I’d like my integrated amp to not be weighed down by a DAC which would too quickly become a vestigial organ inside it.

To reiterate the question: What combination components would best help out with some portion of the sequence of serving--converting--amplifying--digital sources materials while avoiding too-rapid obsolescence?

Thanks for entertaining the question. Again, I’ve read a lot, but it’s not made my path clear. (Or maybe I just get a PS Sprout and call it a day?)

Dave
128x128hilde45

Showing 5 responses by david_ten

david_ten
5,480 posts
 
Not an "argument." Plain wrong!


I’d argue the best $2k dac/streamer can get 97% of the performance of a $10k dac streamer

97% ...Seriously. How are you coming up with these numbers? Based on which components? How broad is your sample?

It's your statement. Support it....
david_ten
5,480 posts
 
Let me illustrate via a story. I live just outside of New Orleans. We have to deal with local flooding and pooling in front of our home, often. 2 feet of water! On the street! Unless you have 'lifted' your Jeep or SUV, vehicles need to be up off the street. 

The reason: the short intake pipes on the street are much, much larger in diameter than the lengthy out-take drainage pipes leading to the drainage canal. Clever engineering, right. : )

Think of the flooding in front of my home as equivalent to the sonic results closest to your ears. Speakers are what your ears are closest to. The drain opening into that canal is distant, but it sure has a bearing and impact on what you experience in front of the home.

Kren, along with so many on the forum, essentially provides the same clever "engineering" solution. 

The front end matters. Go out and listen to a well implemented front end with basic speakers. Then listen to a basic front end with "high end" speakers. 

I can share example after example of systems where the money is in the speakers yet everything in front can't and does not deliver what those speakers are capable of. It's a mistake so many love making and are proud of.

My general advice: take care of the source... in your case source through preamp. There is no need to shy away from or be concerned about an all in one front end (Streamer+DAC+Preamp). 

I'm currently evaluating a Streamer-DAC-Preamp and it is showing up my separates, with ease. : )
david_ten
5,480 posts
 
A guess does not informed opinion make. What you stated is false.

 Importantly, it is a disservice to the forum community.

I’d argue the best $2k dac/streamer can get 97% of the performance of a $10k dac streamer

Ok, maybe 90% is more fair.

Since you have not backed up, nor supported, your claim, the only assumption I can make is that your claim is conjecture...a disservice to the word, given the definition.
david_ten
5,480 posts
 
It's near impossible to reason people out of their fears and ignorance, so I won't. : )


david_ten
5,480 posts
 
The height of instability is in the streamer software, and integration with music services.... The truth is that music services come and go.

Software is stable and mature. Most systems are run off of Linux or Windows which are not going anywhere. The next layer (Media Server and Output software) are also well established and supported. 
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