Spectral DMA 150 compares to Rowland Model 6 and 8

You didn't say if you are using a Spectral preamp. The use of an all Spectral is critical in getting the total Spectral/MIT/Avalon package: detail, holographic imaging, the recording reproduced as it was recorded yet with warmth if the setup is comoplete(dedicated circuits, MIT line conditioning).

Using the Spectral digital system makes a huge difference as well. I was using a Theta Gev 5a with a Jade transport. Moving to the Spectral digital system was night and day. The synergy with the rest of the system really shows when the entire package is put together.

Those that regard Spectral as bright and forward are correct if the entire setup is not topnotch. It took me three years to get to that point.

Sorry to pontificate........

Tim

Tim
I completely agree. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to go for the spectral front end (too $$$). I opted for the Accuphase DP-75V-which works well within this system.
Carl

I am thinking of connecting a Wadia 850 directly to a Spectral DMA 150 (without a preamp), would there be any matching problem? Do I need a Spectral pre-amp to go with it?

What is Spectral 150 Studio Universal? Is that the same as DMA 150 II?

Greg
Your post implies that the standard DMA 150 cannot be used without a Spectral Preamp. If that's the case, does this hold true for the DMA-180? I'm looking at a used DMA 180, but I have a preamp from another manufacturer. Does this mean I cannot use the DMA 180 with that preamp?
--Matt