Where do I go from here?


We finally moved into a home that allows me to unbox the remnants of a system that I boxed up almost 20 years ago.  After two decades, I'd forgotten what I had until I unboxed a pair of Martin Logan Class, a pair of Acoustat 1+1s, a Robertson 6010.  At one point I owned a BAT VK-60, butsold that and an Audible Illusions preamp around  2008...a decision that I regret today.  I also uncovered new replacement panels for the CLSs.  Since this stuff has been boxed-up I've been away from audio completely.  That's about to change.  I plan to continue enjoying the CLSs and plan to return to tube tube amps.  I loved the VK-60's sound and it looks fantastic.  

My question is more about streaming.  My sense is that I get away with a streamer, subscribe to a service, and use it as my pre-amp connected to the power amps. ..  Is it that simple?  I don't want to deal with  CDs or vinyl.  I want to simplify my life.  I'm looking for feedback.  Is my plan viable? 

patrickalston

I think you really need to spend a few months streaming before you make any serious decisions about streaming or what to purchase...

PSAudio has a generous trial period. Maybe try the spout, it has everything inside and ready to go as a streamer Dac and pre....get a better idea of what you need and keep it or send it back no questions asked.

Yes, it is simple and viable.  You also need a DAC.  Some streamer has a built-in DAC or preamp has built-in DAC.  Alternatively, you can go separate for all components: streamer => DAC => preamp route.

@elliottbnewcombjr, @carlsbad2, @jl35   Thank you for your responses as I try to work through next steps.  

The room si-ze is approximately 16' x 28'.  I've assembled one of the Acoustats, plugged it in and hear an occasional crackle (or pop) in the panel.   Not sure if that'll be a problem, but will know once I assemble the second panel and get a signal thorough them.  Regardless, I expect to mainly use the CLSs.  Electrostatics, IMHO, are hard to beat for the music that I enjoy and I plan on getting an ML sub. 

I need to wrap my head around the DAC in terms of options available.  It's on my to-do list this week.

@tonydennison - PS Audio is on my list.

I'll have a better handle on this by week's end and will report back. 

 

When you get a DAC make sure that it has a USB input (most do). You can get started with streaming by using a laptop connected to the DAC with USB. It's best to hardwire the PC to the router vs. using wifi.

I have my ASUS gaming laptop hooked up to my DAC and the only service I subscribe to is Qobuz. I've compared the streamed content to the corresponding CD on a number of titles and they sound virtually identical. If there is some sort of bad juju coming from the computer I can't hear it. [I'm running an Audio Mirror Tubadour IV DAC]

The reason I suggest this is because there are a zillion different streaming options and you should take your time to figure out what you want when you go for a dedicated streamer. This simple setup lets you get your feet wet and get a sense of where you want to go next. I feel that you should look into Roon because it provides some powerful features but it's not for everyone. If you decide to go that route you will have to buy a streamer that is compatible.

In short, don't get lost in the weeds when you get started. Many of us have a spare laptop that we can use for streaming and it is a simple way to get going.