OP,
you seem like a very astute consumer:
doubt the claims, test for yourself, buy what you prefer. +10!!
A Skeptics Digital Upgrade Journey
2 months ago I argued against the benefits of high quality digital cables. It’s just 1’s and 0’s right?
My Bluesound Node (N130) was a convenience - decent SQ for casual listening (SXM radio and Tidal). Focused listening sessions were vinyl only.
Back surgery forced me to take another look at digital - the records were too low to for me to get and my wife was doing enough without taking requests.
I started looking at DACs, and Denafrips was on my list. Thanks to @drmuso I ordered the LSY PSU with LPS ($280) from BEATECHNIK also run by Alvn Lee from Vinshine Audio.
I added a tube DAC from Black Ice and they arrived on the same day along with a Coax cable from Analysis Plus. Interconnects to amp were Nordost Purple Flare. Hard wired Blue Jeans ethernet.
Very pleased with the outcome and I think the all in cost of $2,570 is pretty reasonable.
Lessons learned: everything matters including digital cables, apparently it is not just 1’s and 0’s. Serious listening library expanded exponentially.
Thoughts on my choices/path? Any one else done something similar?
What @kota1 said.Gathering information and opinions is helpful, but trying and buying what you like best is the only way to know for sure. |
Thanks for all the positive feedback. I'm good for now on digital upgrades with the possible exception of a power cable for the DAC but have no doubt a higher end dedicated streamer would take it to another level. I emailed Ray at Zavfino to see if I can get a 1.0m FINA OCC - that would complete an OCC loom and I am keen to see if I can debunk 'power cables don't matter' - 1.0m is custom though so not returnable. If anyone has a suggestion for a used PC I'm open to looking. Thanks again. |
@kota1 I have a medical grade leviton but can't install it yet due to temporary physical restrictions. |