Preamp/DAC Suggestions


I'm currently using a Rogue Sphinx v2 as a preamp with a Mytek Brooklyn amp. Looking for ideas for preamps. I primarily stream Tidal/Qobuz from a BlueSound using a Schiit Multibit DAC but also have my tv plugged into the DAC and use the Rogue for volume control. Speakers are Focal Aria 926s. Looking for something that will give me a really quiet background and more soundstage. Also open to upgrading DAC if that's where I'll get more bang for buck. Budget is under $5000 for DAC and preamp. Other option would be upgrading the integrated and selling Rogue and Mytek, but I like being able to switch around pieces to play with the sound. I'm open to tubes or solid state but really like a totally dark background. 

128x128grateful_dad

@grateful_dad one thing to consider is that in your $5000 price range (and even above) it’s unlikely you will get a DAC with a built in preamp that will be better than a dedicated preamp. I would focus on a DAC first and not worry too much about the built in preamp. You have few choices, and just to name a few…

Benchmark DAC3 L or HGC (even has analog input)

PS Audio Direct Stream Digital DSD (a bargain now that a new model is anticipated)

Bricasti M3 

You can get PS Audio and Bricasti with a built in network player that would eliminate the need for your Bluesound if you use Roon

I'm not really sure I want to use tubes going forward in my main system. My kids and wife use the system for tv and often leave it on, which seems to burn through the tubes.

Well, that would’ve been nice information to have upfront.  Thanks. 

@soix sorry about that. I should have specified i was looking for solid state. Thanks for taking the time to offer your recommendations. I'm definitely going to check out that Pontus II DAC. Maybe that with the Odyssey @atblackbag20 recommends. I'll go tubes in my office system for sure. 

Looking for something that will give me a really quiet background and more soundstage.

I owned a Bryston BP6 and it offers these qualities in spades and could save you $$$. I wrote a review on Soundstage and bought the review sample if you want more info.

http://www.soundstagenetwork.com/equipment/bryston_bp6_cseries.htm

Here’s one available — they don’t specify if it comes with the remote but that can be purchased from Bryston if needed

https://hifi-sound.com/products/bryston-bp6-999

I think running this with a Pontus ll with their DDC and using an i2s connection would be well under budget and be a huge improvement.  Best of luck.