I'm not all in on digital systems because I'm not all in on DACs

@jonwatches1 I have to agree with a lot of what you typed.

I know there was a big jump in performance for RedBook audio around 2000-2005, later I found out there was a change to .... something something capacitive coupled DAC’s which greatly reduced jitter and I attributed it to that.

As I read my own writing and think about what it is I’m not willing to give up it’s control and having my hands in the guts of my system. I like being an active participant. Let’s say I were to evaluate an all in one package, that went from streamer to speaker. I feel like I give up so much engagement in my hobby. I mean, sure it could even be better sounding than anything I’d put together with separates, that’s for sure, but there’s pride and connection and affection that I’d be losing along with it and that’s really at the emotional core of my decision making.

I'm sure if I was a well-heeled music lover, say a movie producer, getting into the dirt would not be the fun part.  Having a great sounding bleeding edge system from Arion that integrates with my home automation and security system would be all the satisfaction I needed. 

. I like being an active participant. Let’s say I were to evaluate an all in one package, that went from streamer to speaker. I feel like I give up so much engagement in my hobby.

That's what makes it interesting,  the different perspectives. I became interested in how minimal can I go but still have excellent sound. My latest sold component was the Lumin U1 mini, now it's all ethernet based the roon core connects to the router as well as the speakers.  Everything is done in the speaker. 

@musicfan2349 , I do. It's just that I've found that a number of filter options is all I need to change the sound of the DAC and that is enough for me.

Now, take into account what you said about DACs being as different as any other component in ones system and I'm back to wondering which one is the most accurate and that designers are voicing them as well, based on their systems, and that's one big monkey wrench I'd rather not deal with.

It used to be that DACs had a particular flavor and that was about it. Nowadays, they can make or break a system, adding to the complexity.

All the best,
Nonoise

Erik, you seem to enjoy tinkering (as I have for some 40+ years building passive and active loudspeakers) and DEQX makes tools that are a tinkerer's dream. Go to their website and read up on them. Too many capabilities for a hunt and peck typist like me to explain on this thread. Feel free to DM me if any questions on the what's and how's. 

Regarding the OPPO players, compared the 105 and the 205 balanced analog outputs into powered studio monitors----the 105 very good (I believe same dac as in your 103), the 205 (using newer processor) was an order of magnitude improvement over the 105 IMHO. The 205 also has six filter options (much fun) as well as MQA decoding (hope no one is triggered) if you like. 

DEQX is coming out with newly designed products using newer processors and four channel capabilities (up from 3) to diy fully active speakers (8 channels). Can be used on conventional speakers as well, just not to the full benefit that fully active can provide (at the cost of more complexity).

BTW, I have no financial interest in DEQX or OPPO. Just feel as though I have some useful info/experience for a perceived kindred audio spirit.

This machine will also have you rethinking using a sub with your 2 ways.

Have fun!

Correction.... The above should read "....four stereo channels (up from 3 stereo channels) to diy fully active speakers (8 total channels)."