Best path to upgrade my source


I am a new start up in the stereo world. At present I have an Audible Illusions pre, 200 watt tube mono's, dynaudio 1.3 mk 11'S, and a highly modded marantz cd67se. I would like to upgrade the front end source. I am on a tight budget, and I'm considering either a Benchmark dac1 or Naim cdi or meridian 506. I prefer acoustic, soft jazz, and mild rock and roll. My listening habits revolve around detail and immediacy as my 53 year old ears have heard better. Any suggestions?
optimationman
I think if you can pick up an older player, such as ARC CD2 or Meridian 508.24, you'll have a much better sound than you would get with Benchmark DAC1. I heard the dac1 in my system and compared it with Bel Canto DAC2. Benchmark went back to the dealer. DAC1 is a pure example of digital sound. Bel Canto DAC2 was way smoother and much better balanced top to bottom.

ARC CD2 or the Meridian 508.24 players will be in another league altogether. Not even a comparison to Benchmark.

But as a cheaper alternative to the above players, I can strongly recommend Bel Canto DAC2. You should be able to get this dac at around $700 or less. You won't regret it. And if you want to sell it later on, it's going to be easier than selling some kit dac like Lite Dac Ah.
Good luck.
Melm,
Regarding the Lavry, Take out the switchmode, and use a outboard linear. Try that, for "starts" then talk.

And regarding "my ears tells me it works".... Well, your ears cant tell you what your missing, if you never heard it from the begining.

I am only trying to show you how to get so much more from the Lavery. The same for benchmark and others.

Yea go ahead and forward this to Lavry... He will know what I am talking about, regarding the power supply.

I know the reason it is used, and what would be better, and he does too.
But I doubt you get the truth. ;c)_
This is something they dont want YOU to know. :c)

I specialize in digital audio reproduction, and have signed NDA with some OEMS. All the board level components within the Lavry, I work with EVERYDAY. Your thoughts regarding error correction, and a good reclocking circuit, are false. The limitting factors to any Dac is the quality of the power and data it's fed. Its that simple.

AP
Has anyone auditioned the Lite Audio DAC 68? I'm in the market for a DAC <$1000. Looking at Benchmark DAC 1 & Lavry Da10; Leaning toward Lavry but heard new Benchmarks have improved sound order older models.
Chichiuno,

Does anyone provide an upgrade to the power supply for the Lavry or Benchmark?