m_j_s

Responses from m_j_s

Phono preamp or SUT for low output moving coil
How about a Mola Mola Lupe?  
Solid State Preamp to replace tube unit
I would definitely suggest Pass Labs XP22  
Updating my streamer
Surprised that Auralic is not getting a mention, Altair G2.2 for example or Vega G2.2, both very capable units  
Balanced vs Unbalanced Digital Cables
The topic is is balanced digital cables, I think many are getting confused with balanced analogue XLR type cables, eg talk about 3dB increase in signal level. We are really talking about 3 conductor, 110 ohm XLR cables, normally used for what are ... 
Magnepan 3.7i amp pairing
Perhaps a s/h Pass Labs X250.8 might fit the budget. I happen to use Pass Labs X260.8 monoblocks with my 3.7i’s and they are great, but I have trialled the X250.8 and it was very good as well  
Should Amps be plugged into a power conditioner?
Just also mention, in Oz we are 240V, so compared say with the US, gear doesn’t draw as much current. I feel that this is factor that is rarely taken into consideration in these discussions. Like it or not, we have better “power” at 240V.  
Should Amps be plugged into a power conditioner?
My Pass Labs mono blocks are plugged directly into to separate wall sockets, which is the recommendation from Pass Labs. Other components with less current draw are plugged into an Isotek conditioner.   
What the Best Dac have you heard or owned. How could you tell it was that good.
I’ve had a few DACs over the years. My latest, a Mola Mola Tambaqui is my end game in terms of quality vs price. A great sounding DAC that involves you in the music.  
Excellent Solid State or Hybrid Monoblocks Recommendations
I’ve got no problems with my PassLabs X260.8 monoblocks driving Magnepan speakers. Worth a listen in my view  
Streamer Comparison and Suggestions
I use an Auralic G2.1, very solid,  can’t go wrong with the G2.2 if I had unlimited funds I might consider a Grimm Audio MU-1  
Upgrading preamp. Best for under $1K
Topping Pre90 for less than a grand, great sound  
Time To Upgrade My Digital Front End
Try the Auralic Aries G1.1, well inside your budget, or an Aries G2.2, about a grand over, but first class sound  
Best Full-Function Preamplifier
A no compromise solution demands separates. For $20k (I assume USD) you could go Pass Labs XP22 line stage preamp and XP17 phono stage  
Cable elevators
Supreme example of snake oil  
Streamer+R2R dac+True balanced Class A preamp all-in-one?
May not be R2R, but I don’t think that should stop you, but the Auralic Vega G2.1 (and now G2.2) pretty much fits the bill. Analog volume control, class A preamps, Streams most things.