mgrif104

Responses from mgrif104

Moon 761 -> 861 upgrade but keeping the 791 preamp/streamer
I auditioned the 761 and 861 at my local dealer and decided on the 761 for my smallish room. Was the 861 better? Yes. It had a bit more dynamic “ease”. Resolution was similar (slight nod to the 861) and tonal characteristics were essentially the s... 
Class d amplification
@rwmiler  It’s a good question though it might be difficult to answer as few of us would have experience with all the options out there. It’s a growing list.  I have direct experience with a few which I’ve previously owned: a PS Audio Stellar S3... 
Tube Pre/ Class D Amp - Who has done it?
So - I’ve been (re)assembling my cabin system. It now consists of the Atmasphere MP-1 mk 3.3 preamp (tube) and Atmasphere Class D monos and I’m pleased to say it’s a very good combination. It’s different than my primary system which is solid state... 
OT: Espresso machines
Erik - if you’re looking for a smaller footprint and reliable machine, I’d suggest you look at the  ECM mechanica. I have several of their machines (Synchronica (2)  and the Mechanica) for different locations and like them because they’re built by... 
Sound quality differences in streamers
@fleschler  Yes, you can get enjoyable sound from a streamer in the price range you suggest. A pre-owned Aurender, Auralic, Innuos would fit the bill. But you have a beautiful, well thought out system and room. And, while you have a great collec... 
Sound quality differences in streamers
@gnaudio  I didn’t take it personally because it wasn’t in response to me or directed at me. I was calling out less than good behavior in this forum on behalf of this community.   More measured and rational dialogue helps us all instead of dimin... 
Sound quality differences in streamers
Interesting. I have never purchased a single piece of audio gear after having looked at the specs (other than making sure a power amp has enough for the task). And, I’ve never rejected a piece of gear based on specs. I listen. And I purchase if it... 
Sound quality differences in streamers
@mdalton  If I recall correctly, we’ve been down this path with you before. You post an incredibly rude comment and then pretend to apologize for it in the guise of being “helpful”. Additionally - if I recall correctly - you’re a vinyl person wi... 
New DAC, what should I look for?
Since you have HQ Player, I would suggest you look for a used T+A DAC 200. It has separate processing paths for DSD and PCM and does spectacularly well with high res feeds from HQ player. Yes, I own T+A gear, but this recommendation comes with a l... 
Is it possible to find a good DAC for under $50, 000?
I have been hesitant to wade into this discussion because there seems to be a fair amount of negativity surrounding the particular subject. And, a lot of belief that may or may not be supported by direct evidence.  Can you hear the difference a m... 
AXPONA 2025
I was there Saturday and hit specific rooms - so not even close to hearing everything. In what I sampled, I heard a few good sounding rooms (MBL/Kyomi Audio, Vinnie Rossi/Rockport Technologies, Bricasti/Tidal, Quintessance: Wilson/D’Agostino), and... 
network switches and cables.
I would echo @jazzman7 as I had a similar experience when I also started with an English Electric 8 switch. My experience with it was positive though the impact in my system at the time was less pronounced. I’ve since upgraded most elements of th... 
The new dCS Varese DAC...it is so good that all others are now relegated to history??
I briefly heard the Varese. I didn’t have time for an extended audition unfortunately. But I wasn’t in the store specifically for that purpose either. So, please take my observations with a large grain of salt - they’re in no way conclusive - even... 
Korf TA AF 10 tonearm feedback?
Thanks all for the feedback. Seems consistent with an owner’s experience on WBF. I decided to go the Tri-planar route.  Best,  
T+A MP 200 with T+A Dac 200 Synergy
I thought some others might chime in here on the synergy between the two units. I only have experience with the DAC 200. At anywhere near its price range, it was the best I heard. I’m sure others may have a different view. However, for me, musical...