Zen mini mark III with lps or zen mark III


Looking to upgrade from bluesound vault 2 to something better. Trying out a Node 2021 at the moment but the difference is not huge. The Node goes USB into an Aesthetix Romulus and the Vault goes in over coax. Interestingly, while the Node is the source I can play file from the Vault hard drive. Would like to know if spending a multiple of the cost of the Node to get into a zen is going to be really noticeable. Thanks

cwatters0

Thanks all. Starting to realize the 2x rule makes a lot of sense. Seems painful at first but no worse than realizing many small upgrades is no bargain. I’ll check out your recommendations. Going to see John Rutan on Saturday to pick up something else so I’ll plan a couple of extra hours with him. 

I faced this question a while back and chose the Innuos Zen Mk3. I've been very happy with the choice. The sound is clear and natural, and the Innuos Sense software is easy to use and optimizes sound quality. As carzmaguy88 pointed out, the Zen costs only a little more than the Mini after adding the external power supply. 

Ahh, you are working with Johnny. He knows his stuff and will be a better guide than most of us.

I believe he is selling Aurilac, so you'd be able to demo it, too.

Tell him I said, Hi.

Bob

Johnny also sells Innuos and Aurender so you may be able to compare all three. He always has great advice and he’ll probably let you audition at home. 

Started this adventure with John 25ish years ago and the gear he set me up with still sounds great. Made some changes but the core VPI Quicksilver Vandersteen still works wonders.  Now digital