Adding a Dac and Stresmer

Hi, I use the Holo Audio May KTE DAC ($5000) and recently got their Red streamer/DDC ($1000). Both are hooked up to a tube pre and a tube amp. The sound is amazing. Deap amd wide Soundstage with great sense of space, great instrument seperation. A full bodied, lush and as natural as I ever experienced sounding combination. I also have the Lab 12 Reference DAC and it sounds thin in comparison to the May.

I have to be honest. I did not know anything about streamers and dad's. My first system consisted of ML ESL !! A's and a Linn streamer. The system has expanded but the streamed is still in play. It has the ability to act as a streamer/amp, a streamer/pre amp, or just as a line source. I am very happy with this streamer

@gilaad 

I seem to be heading down a similar path as yourself. Can I ask what I2S cables you are using (assuming that I2S is your choice) at the moment? What else have you considered? 

Thanks in advance! 

@soix   This is the exact digital front end I am using, Innuos Pulse Mini to Iris to Pontus II via I2S.  The Pulse Mini running the Sense app was a big step up from the Roon Nucleus I was using as a streamer with Roon even though I am a big fan of Roon. I also have a Keces P3 LPS powering the Pulse Mini.  Very resolving and hard to beat for the total cost I believe (especially used).  My next step is to install the Denafrips firmware upgrade for the Pontus II that is supposed to be another improvement in performance.

@tom2441 Nice!!!  Did you notice a big upgrade adding the LPS?  I know it’s a big upgrade for the Zen Mini but you’re the first I’ve heard who’s added one to the Pulse Mini so very curious about your impressions.  Careful with the Pontus upgrade — some say it adds detail but sacrifices some of the warmth they liked while others really liked it and not sure if you can switch back after the upgrade.  FWIW.