From separate streamer and DAC to al-in-one suggestion

@patrickdowns

I used to own EMM Labs DA2 so I am intimately familiar with Ed’s work. While MA3 may have all the features you are looking for, you still need an external server to run Roon core. I encourage you to look into Merging Technologies +player. The +player has a built in VC, headphone jack and offers a distinct advantage with a built in Roon Core / endpoint. I didn’t think I could possibly do better than my pairing of DA2 and Aurender N20 ($37K - retail) until I auditioned +player. The +player exceeded all of my expectations from all-in-one box streaming player. IMHO, +player have no peer if one is seeking realism, transparency and details from their digital system.

I was going to recommend the +player to @kray until I read his post about his budget.  

@lalitk

I've looked at Merging Technologies gear...looks amazing. Above my budget, sadly. I already have a Roon core and streamer (Small Green Computer and SonoreRendu).

Did you like the sound of the EMM?

@kray  A HiFi Rose was listed on the other major listing site, yesterday.

@kray I pointed to the MP 2000 R Mk II since it lists within your budget range used, though rarely in the U.S.  If you are interested and want to check on demo / used units here in the U.S., PM me.

@patrickdowns

I just wanted to give your another option to consider if you are pursuing MA3 which is not nearly as good as DA2. And yes, I liked DA2 until I auditioned +player :-)

The DA2 is one of the best DAC’s but the DAC inside +player is not one or two notches but quite a few notches above DA2. In direct comparison, the DA2 sounded ‘congested’ especially with high resolution content like DSD’s. Merging pedigree with DSD mastering in recording studios clearly shines through +player. That’s why I went all out with +player by adding external +power supply and +clock.