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


I'm contemplating moving from my setup:

Lumin U1 Mini w/sbooster LPS -> Audio Mirror Tubadour SE III DAC

to an all-in-one unit. I will use it strictly as a Roon endpoint. Since there are no R2R NOS type streamers, I've been looking at the AK based ones, like

Rose RS150
Cary DMS-600/650

Also rest of system is Omega 98db speakers, Slagle Autoformer Preamp -> Oliver Sayes 421a based tube amp.

Wonder if I'll be happy with the latest sigma/delta dacs in a all-in-one type unit. Anyone else made a similar move to mine?

128x128kray

@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 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.

I’m not sure why you would separate instead of upgrade the DAC. The bang for the buck would be in the final component before the pre-amp correct ? Just my thoughts