doni

Responses from doni

when did it all get so complicated?
 Wiim puck.  Kind of like CCA but better.  Check out John Darko you tube on it.  
Looking for good computer speakers
+2 for Vanatoo.  
Volume Control Needed between DAC and iLoud MTM Studio Monitors
Or, a Schiit Sys.  About $100.  
Bookshelf dilemma
J.M. Reynaud Bliss Silvers.  The best standmounts I’ve had, in my experience, and can be found used for < $1500 if you’re patient.  Great with tubes or SS.  
Nuprime Stream-9 Streamer
Oh, should have mentioned the Pi2AES is made in the U.S. by Michael Kelly, and if you google it, you'll get info on how to order.  
Nuprime Stream-9 Streamer
Rpi is just the Raspberry Pi, and I use a 3b, not the current 4 version (runs a bit cooler).  The Pi2AES just plugs into the top of the Rpi board, and provides a bunch of outputs (though not USB), such as I2S, AES, Toslink, and Spdif (RCA). I use ... 
Large room with low budget for speakers
Cornwall IV’s.  They work in my 20x37 room, though I only sit about 16 feet away from them.    
Nuprime Stream-9 Streamer
I’ve found a cheap I2S solution, that being an RPi with a Pi2aes HAT which has an I2s output.  I run it into my PS Audio Directstream DAC via Hdmi and the sound is is great!  I think it sounds better than Usb personally.  I’m using the MoOde opera... 
Attractive Bookshelf - Under $3k
Synergy between Vandy and Belles is superb.  My Belles Aria integrated sounds excellent with Rogers LS3/5a’s as well.    
Better R2R DAC Recommendation?
The Gustard x26 Pro is pticed about the same as the Pontus II and has received very favorable reviews.  Not sure if it’s R to R though.  
Can recommend some non-fatigue SMALL bookshelf for near-field listening?
Best nearfield I’ve heard is Rogers LS3/5a with Sugden or Belles integrateds. Sublime!  
Amplfiers that Sound like Pass 30.8 that are not so heavy
I have to second the Belles monoblocs.  Closest thing to the xa30.8  I’ve found.  Either the Belles pre or a good tube pre.  
Highest value pre under 1.5k used?
@bkeske  Feel your pain as I waited much longer than promised for Belles Aria Monoblocs, but it was worth the wait, however painful :) I later bought a used Belles Aria pre to front the monoblocs, and couldn't be happier with the result.  I look ... 
Are pass labs amps good match with vandersteen quattro speakers
Can’t speak to this specific combo, but my xa30.8 pairs very nicely with some Treo CT’s.    
Speakers for a Large Room (20’x37’)
Humans are ok.