2. amps-preamps
  3. 131921-103471

Suggest a new amp/preamp/Dac streaming combo

I'm in the process of joining the 21st century and want new electronics. I have B+W CM10's that I'm happy with and would like to purchase a new integrated amp (or separates) with a DAC and streaming capability. The number of components is not important but I would like to spend $3K or less. Any suggestions? I do have an older B+K 200w/channel that can be utilized but I worry that it has reached the end of it's life.
Thanks,Scott





scott69
mikelavigne
2,200 posts
 

here ya go....

excellent amplifer, excellent analog preamp, and streaming dac.

swiss built, like a tank.

the darTZeel LHC-208

http://www.dartzeel.com/lhc-208/?lang=en

not under $3k. more like $15k. but it’s the real deal and still a great buy. and that is list price, so maybe the dealer can save you some dollars.

I’ve spent quite a bit of time with this unit. it is not compromised in performance. and you can even input a vinyl front end into it. you only need speaker cables and one rack spot. so that does save a few bucks.

randy-11
1,913 posts
 
Creek Evo with the Ruby DAC module will actually answer your question and sounds very good

50 W or 100 W amps depending on your choice

that will leave some $$ for the streaming unit
auxinput
2,920 posts
 

I would start by looking at the available network players, such as this list:

https://www.musicdirect.com/Equipment/Network-Player/?category=Network%2520Player&sort=popularity%7CDESC&page=1&pagesize=24&c1=tab-products&c2=grid

They all have different price points and different sonic signatures. For example, Marantz is voiced to sound warm (like your B&K amp).  Cambridge is the complete opposite as being highly transparent with a lot of detail and attack. 

Sony HAP-Z1ES has been cited as a really excellent device:

https://www.crutchfield.com/p_158HAPZ1ES/Sony-HAP-Z1ES.html?tp=254&awcp=1t1&awcr=196736641108&awdv=c&awkw=%2bsony+%2bhap+%2bz1es&awmt=b&awnw=g&awug=9032294

Some of these network players can act as a preamp, so you could still use your B&K amp if you still liked the sonic signature.

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