soix

Responses from soix

Want a streaming device without DAC in $1K range
Despite having an onboard DAC I’d add the Innuos Zen mini Mk. 3 to your list as it still falls within your price range.  The mini benefits from trickle-down technology from its highly-regarded bigger brothers (Zen and Zenith), and the ability to a... 
Are "streamers" the new "transports"?
I’d add the Innuos Zen Mk.3 ($2600) to your list of candidates.  I like that it has a CD drive that let’s you rip your CDs right into its onboard memory — very easy and convenient.  Watch Darko’s video review of the unit where he compares to other... 
Great Qobuz streamer. Upgrade from Bluesound Node 2
+3 Innuos Zen Mk3.  Darko has an informative video review that I found to be pretty interesting and fairly impressive.  As good as the Node is, this seems like a significant step up in every way if you’re looking for an upgrade. That said and as g... 
Help me put together a $1000 (give or take) headphone rig -- new or used
OK, here’s where I’m at. I just bought open box Hifiman HE 400S phones for $170. I had originally targeted the Sundara, but the 400S seems to check all my boxes for considerably less $. But this was not an easy decision, and I’m not sure I shouldn... 
Low profile CC speaker that is good sounding
I went through all the “good sounding” center speakers I’m aware of (and that I think are on the level of your Studio Refs) and they’re all 7.5” or above.  The center channel is too important.  My advice — get out a saw or ditch the cabinet.  Cabi... 
Denon 4806 AVR Keep it on all day ?
My brother has a similar Denon AVR and it runs warm but not hot.  These are not Class A amplifiers.  Constantly turning a component on and off puts stress on the unit plus the components are always cooling and heating up.  Think about when a light... 
Looking for Suggestions for IC's
What improvements are you looking for over your current IC?  What sound characteristics are most important to you? 
Bryston 3B-ST and tubes4hifi SP11 Pairing
I had both the ST and SST series in my system, and in my opinion the SST is more refined and worth paying more for.  FWIW.  
Best speakers out there for Midrange and Highs
@jmarshak — Yes the Anti-Mode 2.0 is also a DAC and preamp, but you need not use those functions. It also does room correction and sub integration, which is where it may have significant value for you. Like I said, for a relatively modest investme... 
CD player with R2R DAC and headphone output
I think that’s a unicorn.  The Metrum Amethyst is a good R2R NOS DAC with a decent headphone amp built in, but you’d need a transport.  
Best speakers out there for Midrange and Highs
I disagree that you are wasting the bass capabilities of the subs with the Salons.  Heck, people add subs to Wilson Alexandrias, so that should tell you something.I still think before making any drastic changes, especially since you seem to like y... 
Are the really pricey HT Pre Amps worth it?
I think the only reason to pony up for the higher-end prepros is if 2-channel is important. But then, at those prices I’d rather get a decent prepro and a good stereo pre. To me, the only reason to not do this is if for some reason you can only ha... 
Sonus fabre Venere s
My bad.  You are correct.  They are made in Italy.  Color me surprised.  
Need advice
@mormark — My deepest apologies. After years of being here I get a little frustrated when certain information isn’t provided, and I failed to realize you’re new here. Welcome, by the way. I’m honestly trying to help here and hopefully get you bett... 
Best speakers out there for Midrange and Highs
Wait.  You’re crossing over the subs at 90Hz with the Salons?  Why???  That makes absolutely no sense to me whatsoever.  First, you can probably crossover the subs at 40Hz or less with those speakers, and second the sub becomes more directional an...