Thanks for the responses. I think I need at least 100 amps for these speakers, would probably prefer 150 to 250. That seems to leave out the Peachtree and maybe the Music Hall. I don't now have a SACD collection - but as my wife and friends complain that there is no gift they can get me when gifts are supposed to be given, I thought for their sake I might start one. I have been told the Cambridge 840c and 740c CD players can be used as a DAC from the iMac, and wondered if there are others. What about the paragon E preamp as a phono stage leading to the amp or integrated amp?
starting from scratch almost , need advice
I posted a thread here (lazy old audiophile) last month about how to get music from my computer to my speakers. I think I've learned something since - many helpful responses re DACs, etc. Now I have decided to go back to the beginning, almost, and try to determine what is the best way to go. My cost goals are flexible, though I do want good value. I will probably try to find components used here on audiophile. What is fixed is my new iMac and a pair of Kef 205/2 reference speakers. I also have a nice old Technics SL1400mkII turntable and a paragon E tube preamp from the 70's, and a pretty basic (poor) CD player. (1) I understand that some integrated amps are now available with digital inputs, so I could go from the iMac to the integrated amp. Most of these do not have phono stages. If I go that route, can I use the paragon preamp as a phono stage and how? (2) Or I could get an amplifier and use the paragon, but would still have to get a DAC. (3) Or I could get a good SACD that I could also use as the DAC for signal from the Imac (which ones permit this?), or I could get a multifunction SACD, DVD etc, player (I do have HDTV and cable in the same room). I do not think of myself as an audiophile - but I do find that poorly reproduced music bores me. So without being particularly knowledgeable, or knowledgeable at all, I am kind of spoiled when it comes to decent sound. What would you do?
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Sure, the MF A5.5 would work as the DAC is built in with the pre, and the amp. Here is the manual which has extensive references to PC/MAC integration: http://www.musicalfidelity.com/manuals/a55/a55int_eng.pdf Never heard the A5.5, but I own a good deal of MF equipment and enjoy the heck out of it daily. BTW, I also have a SACD collection and while I do love the sound, I would not recommend starting a new collection as the format is dying. IMO you should look to the new Blu-ray HD formats. Or, just buy a good redbook CD player for now and wait until more BR audio titles are available and there are more BR hi-res audiophile quality CDPs to choose from. On the other hand, you may be able to pick up SACDs & players very inexpensively... |
I see no one has replied so I'll add that if you buy from a reputable on-line merchant, they will let you try it in your house for 30 days. You do have to buy it, pay for shipping both ways, and wait for a refund, but if it's your only option, it's workable. IMO, Audio Adviser, is one such company: http://www.audioadvisor.com/testimonials.asp Before I had my Gallo Ref 3.1s, I owned a pair of Kef 104/2s and drove them with Musical Fidelity electronics. Match made in heaven, really, a great combo. All British kit, you know! |
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