I demoed a stock RLD1 years ago in my system, which includes a DNA 0.5 RevA, and found it to be a little polite sounding up top and not on the level of my amp so I’d guess it’s not doing any favors for your excellent amp. I bet a modded RLD1 sounds very different. I also find Marantz gear to be a little polite in the treble range so I could see the combo sounding a bit rolled off. If I’m you I’d probably want to address the preamp first and then find a DAC that synergizes well, but that’s just me.
Looking to upgrade DAC from SA8005
I'm currently using the SA8005 as a redbook player and DAC for the Aries Mini, being fed into a stock RLD-1 and a recent Ultra Platinum upgraded DNA-1.
I want to explore options of a DAC and preamp and looking to stay under the $1500 mark if poss.
My search has included is a PSA Stellar Gain Cell to also be used as a preamp.
Bryston BDP-2
Benchmark DAC-2 (also as preamp)
Yggdrasil (possible depending on price)
I do like the option to keep the HT bypass and remote function.
I feel the hard part is finding one that maintains clarity in the transients of the higher frequencies and not become analytical.
The 8005 does a good job of providing depth, focus, imaging and retaining a very life-like stage presentation but midrange clarity and the upper registry transients need a bit of refinement..seems slightly rolled off and may not be the fault of the 8005, could very well be the 21 YO stock preamp.
I would like to try a Directstream sometime but for now this is the pricepoint I'm at. Another reason is at the price of the DSD there are other options.
Thanks, all input and criticism welcomed
I want to explore options of a DAC and preamp and looking to stay under the $1500 mark if poss.
My search has included is a PSA Stellar Gain Cell to also be used as a preamp.
Bryston BDP-2
Benchmark DAC-2 (also as preamp)
Yggdrasil (possible depending on price)
I do like the option to keep the HT bypass and remote function.
I feel the hard part is finding one that maintains clarity in the transients of the higher frequencies and not become analytical.
The 8005 does a good job of providing depth, focus, imaging and retaining a very life-like stage presentation but midrange clarity and the upper registry transients need a bit of refinement..seems slightly rolled off and may not be the fault of the 8005, could very well be the 21 YO stock preamp.
I would like to try a Directstream sometime but for now this is the pricepoint I'm at. Another reason is at the price of the DSD there are other options.
Thanks, all input and criticism welcomed
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- 8 posts total
- 8 posts total