ghdprentice

Responses from ghdprentice

streaming and audiophile stereo
@russbutton   You are correct that bits a bits. File transfer protocols will assure you that a file in one place is exactly that, bit for a bit,  the same as in an another location. Also, the DAC is a very important component of your system. Ho... 
Speakers for Atma Sphere M60 mk3
Typically most folks build their system around the sound of their speakers. Sonus Faber speakers have a unique, natural, and musical sound. They sound particularly good driven with tubes. Do you like the sound of the speakers?   I have Sonus Fab... 
Tough amp decision
@grislybutter  At ~$1500… I certainly would not go with mono blocks… a lot of extra chassis cost for inexpensive internal components. Maybe even for separates. My office system has a PrimaLuna integrated amp. I think at that price point… if you c... 
Previous Ownership...does it matter to you?
I always buy components from a dealer, not an individual. I want to know someone will stand behind my purchase regardless of the history. That said… they are usually demonstration units.   
Tough amp decision
The best performing components are separate boxes. I currently have both a stereo Audio Research Reference 160 stereo amplifier and the exact same design / implementation.. Reference 160 mono blocks. So the channels are separated in the mono block... 
streaming and audiophile stereo
OP, Roon adds a layer of complexity that you may not want. Qobuz will give your access to tens of millions of tunes. They have over half a million high resolution albums, for around $12 / month. I don’t buy CDs any more, and have been giving mine... 
Do I need 10 gauge power cord if I have 10 gauge from panel?
OP,   Only when comparing to other cords. This is not a pursuit with absolutes… maybe the desire, but we live in a world of imperfection.  
Solving the "complex music problem"?
OP, put your photos under your UserID in virtual systems. It is easy to do and we will be able to see them. The link you posted does not work.  
Getting back in the game
OP, If you have the long term desire to have a great system. Then audition these integrated amps… and maybe a couple more. Save a few more dollars. The “under $10K) for an integrated is a key price point (I think a lot of Boomers are downsizing a... 
Tough amp decision
OP,   If you are not near a dealer, I recommend  weekend trip to a city. Make it a fun mini-vacation. Set up appointments with a couple audio dealers… say you are from out of town. Have them setup and ready when you arrive. If you take your part... 
Inter Connects - What I know and don't know
@williewonka    Good post. Value added. Excellent that someone with the DIY bent chimes in. There are lots of variables… which is why different companies have pursued many different approaches.   
Getting back in the game
OP,   I have B&W 805’s in my Home theater. They are not hard to drive compared with most planar and some others. Typically, for a major upgrade one would start with speakers. They will have the biggest effect on the sound. If you are very h... 
What is the current retail cost of your reference system?
@alaric62    +1  
Made in USA
@panzrwagn … “All my equipment is made on Earth, by humans. Beyond that it gets very complicated, and kinda pointless.”   Yes… one world… what will it take?      
Raised Towers
It is not a dumb idea… and there are speakers out there you would enjoy more, like @russ69 said.