15k for streamer and dac....how much on each?


for a music first, streaming only, two channel system.......with 15k in pocket (can buy new or used)  is the general rule of thumb 50/50 split on the budget?

do any all in one units at this price point compare to separates?

What choice did you land on at your respective budgets?

I've not had the greatest experience with streamers.....sound more similar than dissimilar to my admittedly non golden untrained ears

 

 

 

 

 

 

audiocanada

Definitely an approximate 50 - 50 split. Both are critical. That gets you in the big league with the DAC.
 

If it were me I would get a used Audio Research DAC9 (there are lots of other great DACs, but the 9 is really natural musical and detailed) and a used Aurender N10 (unless you could find a used N20) if you really want a new one then an Aurrender N200. 

Personally, I find a separate DAC and dedicated  streamer provides better SQ than a streaming DAC. Also, I find greater improvements in SQ between streamer models than between DAC models.  That said, I would still recommend a 50/50 split.  At your price point there are many choices.  For DACs, a used Mola Mola Tambaqui, Bricasti M1 SE, DCS Bartok, or Chord Dave can be paired with a new Aurender N200 or a used N10.  I listed the DACs in order of my personal preference.  You must audition.  You always can go with a new streaming DAC.  The new DCS Bartok will be above budget. You can also add the Grimm to list if you go for a new streaming DAC.  But IMHO, as I mentioned before, I find better performance with separates. 

I bought a dSC Bartök in early 2022 and was very happy with it. When the opportunity came to upgrade it to the Apex version, I waffled a bit but ultimately had it upgraded. After burn-in, the changes were not insignificant. I wanted to bring in a Mola Mola Tambaqui for comparison, but I’ve decided that I am satisfied for now. Used, the dCS Bartök Apex is within your budget. It does not require a separate streamer. 

You definitely want a dedicated streamer, DAC and external linear power supply. I was surprised how much the sw improved across the spectrum when I replaced the internal switching power supply of my streamer with a Teddy Pardo LPS. There are so many choices and combinations that you’ll want to audition to really know what sounds best to YOUR ears. I don’t recommend using a computer as some suggest, mainly because they aren’t purpose built for music streaming and will add noise to the signal path due to their power supply and extraneous components you don’t need for music. 

$300USD streamer...Cambridge MXN10 coaxial to

$9000 DAC in the Audio Research Reference CD9 cd player

Sounds wonderful.