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

@testrun getting a SGC i5 might be my next small step. Could add it to my network rack and move Roon off my Mac mini. 

 

One of the best moves I made was getting my ROONS core off a MAC mini and onto a SGC ST.  It might be a small step but its significant.   I put it in the back of my cabinet  , dont even know it's there.

 

 

Unless you’re looking for a big change in sonic character from your current DAC I’d recommend just upgrading the streamer and get more goodness from what you already have.  I don’t think you mentioned what Ethernet and USB cables you’re using, but those make a big difference too while you’re in upgrade mode. 

Lumin D2 is excellent for a streamer/DAC and with one setting you can be up and running with your existing stored library. 
$2300 is list, and “open box deals” might get you 10% off. 

@jwillox I already have a Lumin U1 Mini with LPS, which would be a better streamer portion vs D2, and I love my DAC. If I were going to stay Lumin I'd be looking at T2 or higher. 

Too many choices here :D need to start buying and selling