2. amps-preamps
  3. 176711-145530

Amp Search and Upgrade

So currently I have a Parasound Integrated, the Hint 6, that are driving my Dali Opticon 8. They are rated as a 4 ohm speaker with an 88 db sensitivity. I am looking to upgrade one item this year so I want to make it count. The integrated has pre-outs so I can adda 2 channel amp or a pair of mono blocks.

At this point would I be better off getting just an amp and using the Hint 6 as pre temporarily until I can afford a better pre amp or should I get both pre and amp at once? I'm thinking something used {hopefully) in the $4k range.

I only stream using a Bluesound Node 2i feeding a very nice DAC, an Aqua LaVoce S2, I also have a pair of REL T/7i subs.

Recommendations on what would pair with the Dali's and whether I should stick with the Parasound as pre please!

dadork
carlsbad's avatar
carlsbad
1,551 posts
 

I'm not going to argue with you guys on whether it is worth it to upgrad the streamer but at least don't try to convice a guy to upgrade his streamer before his amp. the streamer is at least a questionable improvement as show my how many disagree with it's value and should at least be one of the last upgrades you do.  --Jerry

zappas's avatar
zappas
164 posts
 

Jerry👎

tomstruck's avatar
tomstruck
350 posts
 

Bad source into a great amp still sounds bad

gregdude
222 posts
 

Ignore the dogpile on the node as a streamer, it's more than adequate. The first response above is the best one. Use the hint6 as a pre amp temporarily. If you feel that you like parasound, I'd suggest a pair of used JC1's. Then spend another $4k next time on an amazing tube based preamp, a la don sachs.

dadork OP
632 posts
 

Currently I am happy with the Node 2i and feeding what I think is a very nice DAC that is well regarded. If anything, I'd do an upgrade to its power supply with Teddy Pardo. If I tackle the pre/ amp this year then next year I might upgrade source.

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