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w1000i

Responses from w1000i

Higher End DACs
For DAC/streamer you must avoid expensive product like dcs and mbs and you should start with well engineered product. For amplifier you can stretch as they may sound deferent compare to dacs.I would suggest matrix dac/streaming x https://www.matri... 
Which one? Paradigm persona 3f, Revel Studio2, Audiosolution Figaro L, Goldenear reference
Try Tekton. 
Need under $1500 preamp for my system
If you want perfect Preamp, check this one Gustard P26 https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/measurements-of-gustard-p26-preamplifier....Or latest schitt Freya shttps://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/schiit... 
New Parasound Halo JC1+ monoblocks just released!!!
In recent years, many good design amp with cheaper price. JC1+ is high in distortion for the price.  
I have to downsize big time, any ideas on integrated amps and smaller 3 way speakers
Check Luxman Integrated amps. For the DAC Matrix Audio X-SABRE Pro Or get the new Rotel michi new pre amp and amp system. And don't wast your money on staff that clean digital signal as if buy a good DAC you don't need to worry. 
$1300-1500 DAC
If you want to buy DAC blindley > check these review https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?forums/digital-audio-converters-dacs.10/ And I think you need to upgarde your speaker for full range size better than upgarde equipment. 
Upgrade from Pass Labs XA30.8 to X250.8. Worth it?
In this price range Luxman m700u could have the edge in term of power and industrial design and I hope someone can compare them. I know WC compare the brands but different models. 
What Class D amps will drive a 2 ohm load
@ georgehifi All the amplifiers in the world double when drop in ohm to half, but when you reach their current limit then you will not see the doubling when you drop in ohm 
Pass Labs XA30.8
Pass Labs XA30.8 will not do it and Dynaudio focus 380 need more power to shine especially in the bass frequency as it will go below 4 ohm.I'd recommed Luxman M-700u as it can give 120 W/8Ω to up to 840 W/1Ω instantaneously exploits the full pot... 
Best Integrated, period.
Musical Fidelity Nu Vista 800 Musical Fidelity M6 500i Are good option also. 
Which stereo amp to try under $30k
I think you should try the best Class D until today. Purifi 1et400a much cheaper and could satisfy you and you can invest  https://www.apollonaudio.com/purifi-1et400a-apollon-audio-monoblock/ OrLinnenberg liszt monoblock 
Is my DAC my weakest link?
The DAC is the most important part as it will convert the lossy digital data to analog. Jump to chord dac and you will see 
Unforgiving DAC or add Tube Preamp??
A preamp tube will never remove the harshness even if you feel that at the beginning.Get Chord Qutest if you want absolute SQ but it does not have volume controls and you need to control the volume from the PC. Or ifi DSD pro for it multi features.   
Speaker Recommendation: 20K range
DALI EPICON 8 ( easy on any amp )TAD THE COMPACT EVOLUTION ONESpendor D9Paradigm persona 5FMonitor Audio pl200 iiDouble Impact SE 
KEF blades 2 or Dynaudio C4?
If you want low volume listening chose something with metal or ribbon  tweeter.I heard both and the C4 is so good and I like it to play loud more than lower volume and the Blade was too warm to my taste.You may check Paradigm Persona, MonitorAudi...