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jastralfu

Responses from jastralfu

Meitner Ma3 Streaming vs Aurender
Not heard either of these but wondering why you would choose both?  If you choose an Aurender as a source and want a Meitner DAC then get just a Meitner DAC without the streaming.  Or pick up the Meitner Ma3 or an Aurender A200 or A20 (which would... 
Is R.E.M. underrated by new music nerds?
@simao same here, just like most, if not all here, music is associated with a time and place. As much as it brings back memories, I'm certain I would still like it if I heard it for the first time today, it's just really good music.  I had never h... 
Is R.E.M. underrated by new music nerds?
@simao I love Jane’s Addiction.  They didn’t get the credit they deserved imo but I don’t really care cause I think they’re great and they always seem to make it into a playlist or two of mine.  
McIntosh C52 to C53?
I wouldn’t spend money on the C53 just for the DA2 module.  You’d get better mileage out of spending that money on a separate DAC.  Keep the N10 and C52 and buy a DAC.  You could get an outstanding one for the price of a C53.  
Songs you use when auditioning gear
@blue-magoo Ok Computer is a great album.  I just spun up Jellyfish Spilt Milk that’s on the list from your link.  I haven’t listened to that album in ages.  
Songs you use when auditioning gear
@veerossi love Marcus Miller.  Amazing bassist, both tracks you mentioned sound outstanding.  
Songs you use when auditioning gear
@troutstreamnm definitely Yes and ELP.  Starship Trooper is a great song to use as is From the Beginning.     @signaforce absolutely so many great suggestions.  I’m having trouble keeping up with them!  
on the cheap
Sorry about that I was part pulling this thread way off track.  Bluesound Vault would work as would the Innuos ZENmini Mk3.  Not sure what inexpensive is to you though as the Vault is $1400 and the Innuos is $2400-$3000 but you can find used for $... 
on the cheap
Wi-Fi is layer 2 as well. I don’t think there is a difference of opinion about whether Ethernet or Wi-Fi works, it was a question of whether Ethernet refers to a wired protocol vice a wireless one.  Ethernet is wired, Wi-Fi is wireless.  Wi-Fi use... 
Advice regarding separate DAC purchase
One last thing, the DAC1 module is a decent DAC and, if you don’t want to spend money on a new one, is more than capable.  Streaming is a fantastic way to listen to and discover new music.  
Advice regarding separate DAC purchase
The Pontus is not a lateral move but, given the investment level you spent on the integrated, something in the $4-$5k range will likely serve you better.  If that is not economically feasible the Pontus is definitely several steps up from the DAC1... 
Seeking Honest Opinions: Your Experience with McIntosh Audio Gear
I own the MA8900 integrated amp which I love.  As far as directly answering your questions: Sound Quality: I would describe my system likely on the slightly warm side of neutral but with plenty of detail.  It has a wide, tall and deep soundstag... 
on the cheap
I did a bit more reading and I take back my previous assertion. Ethernet is a wired protocol, wi-fi is a wireless protocol. @mahler123 the definitions you stated are the correct definitions and have always been. Once the data makes it to the netwo... 
Advice regarding separate DAC purchase
@gjohns i have the MA8900 as well and I use a Hermes DDC connected to a Pontus II 12th Anniversary DAC. I find it to be much better than the DAC1 module in soundstage, imaging, smoothness with increased detail, transients and decay (pretty much ev... 
Do you trust your ears more than measurements?
When I read the subject line my initial response was I trust my ears.  Then I read @hilde45 comment and I reconsidered.  I trust my ears and not  strictly measurements.  However, listening and then taking measurements in my room allowed me to make...