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Preamp or DAC

Hello all. My system consists of the following:

Coda 16 Amp, Coda 07x preamp, Holo May KTE Dac, Aurender N20, Legacy Audio Signature SE speakers and a pair of REL 812 subs. I am considering changing either the preamp or Dac. I would like to go with tubes. Would you think I would get more sq change in changing the preamp or Dac? I am thinking Dac but I wanted to hear your opinions. Considering ARC, new Don Sachs or Aric Audio in pres and Lampizator or other in DACs. So, would the preamp or DAC make a bigger difference? I will say I have a $12k to $15k budget.

Thanks

backdoor
rja's avatar
rja
2,378 posts
 

2 suggestions.

1. Aesthetix Pandora (tubes) w/optional volume control, replace DAC & pre-amp.

2. Meitner MA3 no tubes but includes volume control, replace DAC & pre-amp.

laoman's avatar
laoman
456 posts
 

I would look at the Ayon S 5 network player. This functions as a pre amp, incorporates a Dac and uses tubes.

wturkey's avatar
wturkey
831 posts
 

@audphile1 is correct about the impedance matching.

However the input impedance, single ended, into the Coda 16 is 50K OHMS. Balanced input, the impedance is 10K OHMS.

If a single ended preamp is chosen, the 50K input should be just dandy for the majority of preamps available.

wturkey's avatar
wturkey
831 posts
 

Regarding the Coda 07X, I recently replaced mine with an Audible Illusions L3A. Purchased it on a whim never planning on it overtaking the Coda. Alas, it did. The Coda has way more remote control features plus gain matching the inputs is super great. In the end, the A.I. is sonically superior to my ears. Though losing the Codas input switching via the remote control was a bummer.....

willywonka
291 posts
 

I have a similar type of system. Coda #8 amp, Holo Audio May KTE DAC, Holo Audio Serene KTE preamp and Aurender N200. I also have dual REL subs. I ordered a new BAT VK-80 tube preamp a few days ago. I’m also trying to integrate some tubes into my system. Many people I know weren't really happy with the Coda 07X preamp. You won't have any problems with impedance matching with the Coda and most preamps. The 10-1 ratio will be easily met with most preamps and your amp.

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