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pdreher

Responses from pdreher

which would you choose
I use my SB Touch with a Luxman DA-06 DAC. Sounds great even with the free, low rez version of Pandora. 
Harbeth comparison?
If you can swing a used pair of 40.1's, you can sell your sub and get off the speaker merry-go-round.  I use 40.1's in a room of similar size (26' x 14' x 7.5') driven by VAC 30/30 MKIII Signature... or when I want a different flavor, change over ... 
Dated but still A rated DACs
I love my Luxman DA-06.   Typically sell for $2,500 used.  
The Harbeth phenomenon
Understood.   I take a less scientific approach to audio and just go with what sounds best to my ears.   
The Harbeth phenomenon
Willem,Do you own Harbeth...and if so, have you tried many moderate powered tube amps? As it relates to the flagship M-40.1's, reviews from Stereophile, 6moons and Tone Audio share my experience that moderate power tube amps (as low as 25 wpc) can... 
The Harbeth phenomenon
Cantorgale,I'm on my second pair of 40.1's and have also owned SHL5's.  I prefer tube amps with both speakers... and I've tried a lot of amps, both SS and tube.  I'd be surprised if you'd need anything more powerful than a tube amp with 40 to 60 W... 
What's on your audio wish list for 2018?
A CEC Transport. 
Insight for system build
Sounds like you are well on your way to having a really nice system.  I'm on my third pair of Harbeth speakers and own a Luxman DA-06 dac.   If at all possible, I would have an electrician put in two dedicated 15 amp lines and a whole house surge ... 
Gumby vs Yggy
It seems many on the Gon are happy with Auralic streamers... but I bought mine new and found it to be extremely buggy and frustrating.  I returned it after about 10 days of attempting to debug it via email exchanges with their limited customer sup... 
Tube preamp recommendations $3K-$7K range
I would hope the ARC Ref 5SE is better than the Calypso at more the double the retail selling price.How does it sound running single ended?   I've heard that ARC gear sounds far better in balanced mode, which has kept me from trying their  preamps... 
Tube preamp recommendations $3K-$7K range
Jaybe & Randy-11 - I've read numerous threads stating ARC gear sounds it's best in balanced configuration (requiring XLR interconnects).  Is this true?  If so, that would be good for the original poster to know.I too have heard good things abo... 
I need to buy a complete system.
Budget?  Musical interests?  Preference towards a neutral / accurate sound or more warm / musical?   
What is your favorite budget audio component?
Squeezebox Touch.  
Please help me chose a tube preamp
Ditto everything r_f_ sayles and sgunther said!I'm pro Aesthetix having previously owned the base Calypso with premium NOS tubes and currently owning the Signature version with premium NOS tubes.   In approximately 7 years of combined ownership I'... 
Mastersound 300B Monoblocks
You may want to research the VAC 30/70 monoblocks.  There's a pair for sale right now for only $6,000.  I have pair of 30/70 Signatures with VAC supplied 300B's and NOS RCA splitter and driver tubes.