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After Several Years, Time to Upgrade: Your Suggestions

My Audio System for the last few Years:

-  Peachtree iDecco 1 (as digital dac/preamp only)
-  Paradigm Reference Active/40 Speakers
-  Harmonic Technology Truth Link Interconnect
-  Vandersteen V2W Subwoofer with Velodyne Sub-crossover
-  Lenovo T410 Laptop Server (Win7 Pro, Samsung SSD, 8gb RAM, JRiver 21, Halide USB/SPDIF Bridge)
- Music: jazz, classic r&r, folk

I'd like to upgrade and am thinking I'll start with the DAC/Pre and simplify subwoofer set-up. Have about $3k to spend.  I have not kept up with the latest and greatest in audio and really appreciate the very knowledgeable folks on this forum. Would love to get your input and recommendations. Thanks very much for your time.

Matt

pirius
mesch
3,530 posts
 
First things first.  What are you looking to accomplish with an upgrade?


jafant's avatar
jafant
20,311 posts
 
Matt-

the pre-amp is the "heart" of any system. Choose the best that you can afford. Happy Listening!
pirius OP
20 posts
 
What am I trying to accomplish?

Most important, on jazz recordings:  (1) truer tonality on piano, reed, brass, vocal; (2) better definition/pace on subtler dynamic shadings -- especially cymbals and snare; increased sense of instrumental space/ambience.
mesch
3,530 posts
 
If you wish to keep your speakers, I think you are on the right path with your idea to upgrade the pre and DAC. Good luck with whatever you choose!

coli
291 posts
 
TEAC UD-501, no need for pre, this one got NOS mode too. For cables, go Mogami ( make sure you use the right ones for the right application)
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