Legacy Wavelet as Preamp/DAC/DSP vs just DSP


I am upgrading from a Legacy Focus SE to a Legacy Aeris and Wavelet system. Many folks tend to use the Wavelet as an all in one and end up walking away from thei preamp and DAC separates. I’m skeptical of doing that, as I love my PS Audio Directstream DAC and Modwright LS 36.5 DM preamp. I can’t imagine the Wavelet would beat those.

I’d love to hear others’ journeys with the Wavelet. Did you find it bested your preamp and DAC? Did you end up using it just for your DSP? What preamp, DAC and cables did you use it with, and what did the A/B tests reveal?

Also, has anyone used it only to process the bass section only and used the rest of the output straight from the preamp? Is that even possible?
Thanks for sharing. 

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One thing that I want to avoid is multiple DAC's in series, and this device does just that.  You could use a separate DAC, but that analog signal will be re-digitized (Analog-to-Digital conversion) and re-DAC'd.

By using it as the DAC, you keep your signal in the digital domain until the outputs.

So, my advice to you is to listen to the whole proposition.  Do you love the Legacay / Wavelet speaker ? Is it enthralling and going to give you a far superior experience than you've had, or no?  If yes, I'd forego another DAC.

Of course, nothing is stopping you from keeping your PS Audio, but the real judge will be your own ears.
@erik_squires - I was thinking the same thing regarding the double conversion. I wish there was a way to use the Wavelet just as the processor going digital out to the DirectStream DAC but don’t think that’s really an option since I need the outputs of the Wavelet to go to the amplifiers built into the Aeris.

Would you say the same for using a separate preamp? I’ll be testing around all combinations as the combo arrives later this week. FWIW, I loved the Aeris when I heard them in person, but granted that was not with my equipment and not in my listening room.
You can ask Audio Classics, they are a huge Legacy dealer and I believe they have them set up on the main floor for listening.  They would know for sure.  They are still answering email at this time. 
Honestly I'd just pick one or the other.  Keep your PS Audio and current set up or decide the upgrade is worth doing and sell the DAC. Every change requires some sacrifice. :)
I have the legacy Valors and the Wavelet - the wavelet replaced a very expensive $20k plus preamp and DAC - I was VERY hesitant to even try the wavelet alone...but I blew a fuse in my DAC and thought - ok, what have I got to lose...and ended going with the wavelet as preamp and DAC after extensive listening...

An audiophile friend who thought my DAC and preamp was one of the most analog sounding setups couldn't believe it. He came over for a listen and was very surprised. So was I, but to have really good sound and make a couple of bucks, what the heck...

The preamp did have an amazing phone stage - but I am now full hi rez and its tough to beat...analog is fun though and every now and then miss a spin...

One note - the Valor's are extremely revealing - and it took a while to dial in the system even with the adjustable wavelet. the wavelet helped immensly during this process, but cords, cables, the room, tweaking, etc. everything matters....I have the system dialed in really well right now. very happy - 

Feel free to reach out PM 

I did go with an outboard power supply for the wavelet, which seemed to help.