Hi Charlies,
Yes, you are correct that the way my reference system is now setup, either a CEC or MBL transport, Concert Fidelity hybrid tube DAC, Micro-ZOTL used as a line stage, and the Triode Labs SET 2A3s-MK2 amp driving the DI's is the most enjoyable rig I have ever had since I started in the hobby. What's ironic overall is that this is not an inexpensive system by any means, however, when you think what I have replaced regarding price- going from a 23K preamp to a Micro-ZOTL $1,700.00, a pair of speakers that were 19K to the basic DI's for $3,000.00, and a pair of amps that retail for $5,700.00/12K to the Triode Lab amp for $3,900.00 because the performance was increased qualitatively by spending way less money.
It really proves that you do not have to spend mega-bucks to get a reference level system if the goal is music not "eye-candy" or bragging rights about who owns the latest/greatest most expensive rig. Eric's ability to create and sell such a high preforming speaker for peanuts compared to other hideously over priced speakers (I have heard them all and many I would not want to own, not because of price but because I find them lousy in their performance) has opened the flood gates for us music lovers who still work for a living.
I'm expecting the DI's big brother for review in the next two to three weeks, it will be very interesting for me to compare/contrast these two speakers for my review. Eric believes that his new speaker performs on a much higher level then the DI's, will shall see! I'll have them side by side with the same gear/same acoustic space so it really will be an apple to apple comparison. This should be a very special experience, indeed!
