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How many of you are digital only systems?

I currently have an all digital setup, streaming and stored digital files and ripped CD’s on my Innuos Zen mkIII via Chord Qutest to a PrimaLuna EVO 400i. I have been contemplating adding analog to my system, like a Clearaudio concept table. I am NOT hear to debate which one is better, so please don’t turn it into that, I understand the differences. How many of you are digital only? If you listen to digital as well, please tell me why. Is it because of sonic qualities or just the nostalgic reasons of spinning vinyl. I just don’t know if I want a turntable because it would be new gear to play with or if I think it has sonic qualities that I am missing with digital. I would have to buy new vinyl as I really only have a few of my albums from when I was teenager in the 80’s. Maybe I should just put the money towards upgrading digital components, even though I love my Qutest/Zen combo, I could move up in their line?? Am I missing something truly special in the audio world if I’m all digital? Thanks for your thoughts 
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nonoise's avatar
nonoise
10,891 posts
 
CD for me. 
hysteve
80 posts
 
I just got back into hifi and just digital so far. I’m on the cusp of getting a tt to measure the progress of my newly acquired digital system. I can’t even remember the last time I even heard a record played. All my records from the 70s were ruined and discarded years ago. Some of my well heeled golf buddies (with deeper pockets than me!) say that they have both digital and analog and they’re both good. Which system they go to depends upon the music selection, their mood or if they are entertaining. Another mood decision is tube vs solid state which, again, they have both!
jrpnde
271 posts
 
   Digital vs analog or both. I have both and appreciate the qualities of each. The convenience of digital is certainly a big plus. However, each media is at the mercy of the quality of the recording. Both have excellent and lousy results.
   Analog (vinyl) requires serious commitment. Equipment, media, setup, etc .And, factors such as record cleaning and storage. If you don't already have a large collection of your favorite music then acquiring some of them may be expensive.
   Whatever fits your preference is right for you. Just from my own experience....the same recordings of the best quality.....the vinyl will win out every time. 

   
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jallan
314 posts
 
Once had close to a thousand LP’s, still have around 700. Haven’t touched them since I got my Yggdrasil, it really is that much better (Ariston RD11S, Grace 707, Benz Ace).
brubin
121 posts
 
 As a photographer ask yourself would you go back to 35mm or Medium format film?  Unless you're doing something special - I bet the answer is no. 

Experiment for yourself, get a friend with a Record player with music you like and compare them to your streaming DAC.  Assuming the recordings are but of good quality, you will be hard-pressed to add analog to your system.  

I play FLAC and also SACD dsf files on my DAC,  and they have a fuller bass range than records,  a lot less expensive to buy, maintain, etc. 

 

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