Wanting to upgrade my streaming sound quality.


I would really like to get my streaming sq up to my analog sq. My equipment is a McIntosh MC 452, C47, TD 124 with an AT 150 SA on a SME M2-9 tone arm, a Rega P8 with an Alpheta 3, a restored MR 74 tuner, driving Aerial 7t speakers. My streaming now is an iPad with a usb cable into my preamp with Tidal. I would be willing to spend around $2500 . A one box solution would be preferable for a steamer/dac combo although two boxes could also work. I’m not interested in multiple clocks and separate power supplies etc. Also I don’t use CD’s for a source.  I do have AT&T fiber internet with up to 1000 mb speed and my modem is only around 5 feet from my audio rack. Balanced inputs is preferable but not a deal breaker. I’ve looked at the HiFi Rose 250 and the 150 although the latter is more money than I want to spend. Any help would be greatly appreciated. I’m an Analog guy in a digital world.

Greg

128x128gphill

Jj thanks for the affirmation. I sure hope you’re right. I bought the last one Crutchfield had in stock, so I can send it back within 60 days if I want. Last night I was listening to Tidal masters through my iPad and dac in my preamp, it was very enjoyable. Im hoping the Rose is going to be a big step up.

My vinyl collection is at least 90% pre 1990's purchases or gifted. While some of the newer vinyl has great sound, some is digital original mastering or remastering, pure analog masters, no digital ever sounds best to me. Vinyl prices would certainly be an obstacle for those just starting a vinyl collection.

 

There have been times when I've thought about liquidating my vinyl, tempted when I see prices of used vinyl. Since I purchased cheap back in the day, this has turned out to be good investment. The question is does the benefit of playing vinyl outweigh the financial gain of liquidating? Financial gain of liquidating entire vinyl setup also part of equation. I either need to upgrade vinyl setup big time or walk away. I bet any number of audiophiles have come to this place and decided to sell off vinyl. The better digital gets the more will come to this realization.

Another one box solution that has some enthusiastic fans:

For under $3000, a Cambridge CXN V2 with an upgrade by Modwright


What is included in the tube modified upgraded?
1. Replacement of stock DAC power supply with our own design.
2. Replacement of the entire stock SS analog stage with our own all-tube based analog stage and its own power supply.
3. Fully balanced in to out, with both RCA and XLR outs.
4. The entire mod is enclosed in one box, no outboard supply or umbilical.

+1 @samsterid 

 

a great choice indeed - especially if you like tubes~

ModWright Instruments | Cambridge CXN V2 Tube Modification

 

It looks to have all the features the OP wants with an upgraded power supply. Equally someone like Dan to stand behind the product.

I have a cxn v1 and even thought of sending to Dan to upgrade except its 5 years old now. I also have a PSaudio PWD and a ROMA69DC . I love the tubes in the ROMA for a little more life. The CXN is the most user friendly and everyone who connects can play though it easily.

 

 

and.... if you purchased the HIFI Rose I am sure it will bring you many excellent years of listening. Waiting to hear your impressions