Is this streamer good? Cambridge Audio MXN 10 compared to the iFi Zen Stream? thanks
DAC suggestion for PC
Need some help deciding on which DAC to use with a few changes I will be making for my PC audio setup. Currently I am using a iFi Audio Zen DAC v2 connected by USB (and a Fosi Audio Tube amp). Right now I am using some PSB Image bookshelves (but I'll be changing these as well) and a Velodyne Subwoofer.
The change I will be making, is I'm looking at changing my amp to a used Cambridge Audio CXA61 which has its own DAC. The Cambridge has the ESS Sabre ES9010 DAC model. If this isn't a better DAC, then I'll look at the Cambridge Audio AXR85 instead which doesnt come with a DAC instead and keep the zen dac.
My questions are the following:
1. Is the CXA61 dac better than the Zen DAC v2? It would be nice to eliminate an extra piece of equipment.
2. Might be a bit out of my budget, but how much of an upgrade would the CXA81 with the ESS Sabre ES9016 DAC be? Is it worth paying the extra?
From what I understand, the model of the DAC alone doesnt tell the whole story, but how the unit is built and setup around it that also matters. Hence why I am looking for some feedback as Ive never compared or auditioned them with an A/B comparison. Thanks
Showing 5 responses by skads_187
Yeah, the streamer will be last purchase. Order will be 1. Speakers 2. amp 3. Replace DAC with a streamer/dac For Speakers, Im not sure yet, Im looking at the used market for now. I found some Sonus Faber Toy bookshelves that might be nice. Always wanted to try Sonus Faber. If not, I can wait to see if I can find some Dynaudio Emit10. |
@soix Interesting! ok, I think step 1 for now, is the amp, as its my weakest link I have to imagine. Then speakers (which I had to do anyway, bringing the current ones to main floor for tv room) , then a streamer. Sad part is though... maybe I should get a streamer with DAC vs an amp with DAC? which now opens a new door of research. |
@milpai Correct I am using directly from my PC, sitting in front of the screen. I should have mentioned from the beginning, this is my office desk setup. Fidelizer could be very interesting. What about using the Roon app on pc, does that help any? |