mesch

Responses from mesch

Recapturing my youth
What is your budget for speakers?There are new speakers available that have the look your after. A pair of Wharfedale Lintons with matching stands cost $1500. I own a pair of Tannoy Sterlings which are beautiful, course they retail at $6000. 
Best bang for buck integrated amp for $500
Well,it seems you like the sonics of the IO best. You can use a subwoofer via speaker outputs. The built in amplifiers have very high input impedance such that the amp doesn't 'see' an increased load. Check out the sub threads here on AG. 
Help with first cable upgrade.
What is your budget for improvements? 
Audio Mirror Tubadour III Upgrade
+1jjss49.  I purchased the AMT3 with selected upgrades based on Vlad's advice, did not go for the SE version.  
How to fix my preamp dilemma
To repeat, I recommend the DAC as an upgrade to your current system. The Schiit Modi 3 retails for $100 plus shipping. It has coax, opticak and USB inputs. There is a optical input only version on Ebay with a current bid of $40 if that is the only... 
Seeking Opinion on Marantz PM5005
I t is a Class A/B amplifier putting out ~50wpc. The 5005 is made in China, the 6006 and higher ups in that line are made in Japan. 
How to fix my preamp dilemma
Yes, often the analog output is a 3.5mm headphone output you would improve the sonic qualities for both music and video with a outboard DAC. Most DAC outputs would allow for use of a passive preamp. Look up the Schiit Modi DACs. I believe it would... 
How to fix my preamp dilemma
There is a Schiit Audio Modi optical input DAC for sale on Ebay. Current bid is $40 and 10$ shipping. Would make for a true improvement over the TV optical output if that is what it has.  
How to fix my preamp dilemma
Given you are on a tight budget, I am working to solve your problem on a strict budget so you get your music (also video?) back until you have the funds to upgrade. My approach would be to buy a budget DAC and a passive preamp. I was thinking that... 
How to fix my preamp dilemma
Ok. You are running apple tv into tv via HDMI then from tv to preamp via a pair of analog RCAs. You are using the DAC within the tv. Correct?Your tv should have digital output. Likely optical. Yes? Another question, how many inputs were you using ... 
How to fix my preamp dilemma
How did you connect the apple tv to the preamp? Or did you go thru the tv? 
How to fix my preamp dilemma
Spotify downloads, via what device? A DAC. I am asking because you might get by using a passive preamp. 
Best bang for buck integrated amp for $500
Look for a use NAD C356BEE.  
Black ice Audio owners, pet peaves
I once owned a Jolida Fusion all tube preamp. Served me very well. Had conversations with both Michael and Jerred. Both were very responsive to questions.  
How to fix my preamp dilemma
What are you using for a source?