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Which component to upgrade 1st ?

Hey folks here is my dilemma I have a budget of about 6K for a new component. I currently have Martin Logan Vantage speakers, Audio Research Ref75 amp, Audio Research LS17SE preamp, Rega P6 turntable, and a bluesound node (makes my ears hurt but you have to start somewhere) and a Chord Qutest dac. My wishlist includes Lumin T2, (sell Qutest and node), Audio Research Ref 5 used ( sell LS17SE), used Phono tube dac (currently have Mofi), or used Weiss 502 dac with either a Lumin U2 mini or Bricasti M5. I know start with source first but I can’t wrap my head around which toy first. Thoughts and be kind.

milo0812
tuberist's avatar
tuberist
951 posts
 

The Weiss is top of the heap IMO. A streamer is built in and the Weiss has impressive functionality. If you are a headphone person go 502 otherwise 501 will cost less. It also can drive your amp without a preamp in the chain. I owned a T2 and the Weiss is significantly more musical to me, although twice the price of the LUMIN.

milo0812 OP
43 posts
 

Thanks for the reply. Yep the 501 gets such great reviews. Going to have to set some alerts on all of the above soon.

audition__audio
1,375 posts
 

I would strongly consider replacing the speakers first.

milo0812 OP
43 posts
 

That’s an interesting thought. What would you suggest?

ghdprentice
6,508 posts
 

Well, first, you are well on your way to a really great system. Everything you have said suggests you are on the right track.

 

The Audio Research REF5 is a fantastic preamp. I owned a REF5SE for ten years and now own a REF6se. I think this should be your first step. It will impact everything. If you are not familiar with my systems, look under my UserID. the more ARC… each step will make a big difference. Your budget is good to make a significant step up. Your ARC REF75 is a great classic amp.

 

I would say, the next move would be the streamer. I would recommend a used Aurender N10. You could get one for around that cost. After owning lots of streamers, my conclusion is that the investment should be at the level of the rest of your components… my amp and streamer are the most expensive electronic components I have, and really well worth it. I currently own an Aurender N100 and their flagship WE20se.

 

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