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Which component to upgrade 1st ?

Hey folks here is my dilemma I have a budget of about 6K for a new component. I currently have Martin Logan Vantage speakers, Audio Research Ref75 amp, Audio Research LS17SE preamp, Rega P6 turntable, and a bluesound node (makes my ears hurt but you have to start somewhere) and a Chord Qutest dac. My wishlist includes Lumin T2, (sell Qutest and node), Audio Research Ref 5 used ( sell LS17SE), used Phono tube dac (currently have Mofi), or used Weiss 502 dac with either a Lumin U2 mini or Bricasti M5. I know start with source first but I can’t wrap my head around which toy first. Thoughts and be kind.

milo0812
audphile1's avatar
audphile1
4,388 posts
 

The ML Vantage have a powered woofer. So the panel is pretty much the only thing that presents a challenge to the amp. However, I think you’re fine with the ARC amp driving the MLs. I had the ML Montis and used Rogue ST-100 tube amp mostly in triode mode which puts out about 60-65w/ch. I also used Pass XA-30.8 with the MLs and it rarely moved out of pure Class A operation.

Even though the Qutest is a great DAC, IMO upgrading the DAC will be the biggest impact in your system especially if you switch to running all XLRs with the ARC gear. The Weiss 501 DAC should be great and will replace both the Node and the Qutest.
I would then tackle the preamp next and would look into something like ARC Ref5/se. Stay with the ARC for your preamp for synergy, sonics and a piece of mind.

By the time you’re done with either or both upgrades, you’ll sit down for a listen one day and realize that your speakers are not on the level with the rest of your gear. 😀

You mentioned you like warm sound…may be look into Harbeths when you get around to the speakers.

mahler123
3,101 posts
 

I would ditch the tt and add the funds to budget for the best DAC and streamer combination.  The Node is ok but at this point you are very source deficient 

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
4,388 posts
 

Oh and let me throw another DAC suggestion into the mix…

Bricasti M3 or M1SE used are within your budget. Find these on a used market with a built in network player and you’re good to go as far as the DAC upgrade is concerned. 

milo0812 OP
43 posts
 

@ghdprentice really interested to know which SFs you chose. When I do swap speakers SF is my choice as well. If I can one day find a used set of Olympic Nova IIs life would be grand. Ty

milo0812 OP
43 posts
 

@audphile1 really enjoyed your reply. I’ve pretty much mapped out my plan. Dac  first, brand TBA at a later date. First replace dac and node. Then preamp, then speakers. These moves will be at least a year apart for each. So here is the new dilemma I don’t live close to either a Bricasti or Weiss dealer to preview. Any suggestions on dealers? I enjoy traveling to cities with Hi-end audio equipment. Such a geek! Ty

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