Jeff Rowlands Amp and Dac vs. VAC amp and DAC


Hello, I am new to this forum but I have a question. I am trying to pair an amp + DAC with my Wilson Sabrinas. I have listened to Jeff Rowlands integrated with the Aeris DAC. And the VAC Sigma integrated with the Aeris DAC. Price is a factor and so is space. Does the 625 need a pre-amp? Any suggestions or thoughts? 
rinpoche
Call me names if you wish, but I suggest you get rid of Wilsons and start listening to various speakers/amp combinations. In a few months you might end up with something truly great. 
Your wallet appears to be pretty good if not exactly perfect..
In your place I would probably start with Kharma/LAMM/Purist Audio and then move from there.
Of course, both Rowland and VAC would give you excellent sound with your speakers, but that's not my point. If you want great sound - you must make a great effort to achieve it. So far you are not making it. Sorry, man.
Inna,
The inescapable aspect about this hobby is it inevitably boils down to subjectivity. You make the valid point of expending the field of other competing speakers and components and the benefits of this exposure. I don’t know the extent of Rinpoche's  awareness of other speakers however it’s quite clear she loves what she’s heard from the Wilson Sabrinas. She could hear a dozen different speaker brands and still prefer the Sabrinas or as you suggest, find ànother that impresses more.

No one can audition every possible choice available so in reality there’s a limit to the level of exposure one can achieve. Wilson as is Magico are the epitome of polarizing High End brands and they generate very passionate defenders and critics. Rinpoche has heard the Wilson and really likes their sound, that’s important and significant. Identifying the sound you prefer is the key step towards assembling an audio system that will keep you happy and content for the long term.
Charles,
rinpoche, I'm with Charles, maintain the course you have set and I'm sure you will make a choice that you will find very musically satisfying with your Wilsons. In the end it is what sounds right to you.

Hi rinpoche, if budget precludes the new M725 S2, I warmly recommend the M625 S2 over the original M725.


As for VAC vs Rowland, I personally prefer the organic sound of Rowland electronic.


 

The OP loves her Wilson's, but I do believe she mentioned earlier that she had not listened to any competing loudspeakers when she acquired them.  Her frame of reference is limited.

From reading these forums it's my observation that new audiophiles don't have long-term success in building truly high end systems in one shot.  To Inna's point, it's too complex.  I'm not sure if this also applies to music lovers and I'm most interested to find the outcome for the OP.