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Putting together a system...looking for some suggestions

Hey...I'm looking for some suggestions on a system.  I have about a $4k budget and need speakers, an integrated amp, a DAC, and a bluetooth receiver.  I prefer, if possible, that the DAC have built in bluetooth...but it's not critical.

Here are the two system options I have in mind:

1) Rogue Sphinx, Arcam irDAC, GoldenEar Triton Three+

-or-

2) Peachtree Nove 150, GoldenEar Triton Three+

I'm leaning heavily towards option 2.  I will add a higher quality record player in the future, but for now I plan to use my Audio Technica that I have had for years.  The only other speakers I have seriously considered are the ELAC UniFi F5.  I'd prefer not to have to get a sub, which is one of the reasons that the Triton is appealing.

The system is just for music, and will be in a decent sized room approx 15'x30' with 7.5' ceilings.  Most of my music will be coming from Rhapsody, Pandora, ITunes, etc.  

Any thoughts on what I am looking at, or alternate suggestions?




derekbyron
erik_squires
16,353 posts
 
Yeah, I think that GE and B&W are speakers you really MUST audition for yourself. They are not to my ears, or any measurements, neutral. I’m not saying you should not like them. Especially important to listen to them in space and at the volume you expect to listen. Personally, and this is VERY rough, i'd put their tonal balance close to the Thiels while Thiel was still around.

Consider room treatment first. Reach out to GIK for adivce. This will make the room more speaker friendly. Room treatment will outlast any other purchases and make you happier with a wider variety.

And please, no flames. Buy what you like, and call neutral whatever you want. I'm really just saying I think these speakers should be heard ahead of time.

Best,

Erik
gdnrbob
4,458 posts
 
Erik makes some great points. As I have said before to posters like yourself, you should put in some time going to local dealers and get a sense of what you like/dislike. I understand your trepidation that you won't  'accurately remember what they even sounded like', but trust me, you will get a good indication of the 'sound' you like.
Sjtm also recommended buying used, which is something I agree with too. Especially the amp/pre and peripherals. You will save a bunch of money which can be put to obtaining higher quality gear.
FWIW, I heard the GoldenEar speakers, and have to say I wasn't impressed, despite the fact that they are highly rated. YMMV
gsm18439
895 posts
 
Zu is not the only speaker company that offers a 30-60 day approval period. Tekton is another example. However, I suggest that you give Zu a call. Sean, in particular, is very helpful.

There are two integrated amplifiers for sale on A'gon: YBA Integre DT (the "old" design) for $1775 and Audio Refinement Complete for $500. In particular, the Audio Refinement (which was YBAs second line) is a bargain and sounds really great. Here is the link to the Stereophile review:  http://www.stereophile.com/integratedamps/499ar/#jBfHwJoWTj6yqwAb.97
stereo5's avatar
stereo5
6,455 posts
 
I own both Triton Ones and Triton Twos (2 different systems). The Triton speakers are in no way bright or etched. I am a guy who always had speakers with silk dome tweeters as they are less bright and the GE folded ribbon tweeter is one of the best. Just pure sweet highs. B&W, not even close. They sound like the Theils to me, and make me want to  put my fingers in my ears to block the highs and headache.
beernut's avatar
beernut
297 posts
 
Another consideration is the type of music you listen to. I've owned Tritons and enjoyed them. I currently have Magnepan .7's and really enjoy them, two different flavors. One brand that I have owned and always liked and respected are the PSB's. Many models at every price point. Easy to drive, not very placement finicky and to my ears, a balanced yet exciting sound. There are worthy of consideration.
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