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Is it still worth buying a Lumin x1 in 2023?

Hello,

 

i currently have a Lumin D2 in my system, and i want to upgrade (I know ... typical audiophile problem :-) ).

My system is the following:

Speakers: Spendor sp100r2

Amp: Grandionote Shinai

Streamer: Lumin D2

Power isolation: Puritan PSM 156

Why do i want to upgrade?

I want "more of everything": more clarity, more details, more extension on both ends, better vocals, less digital sounding ... I like music, i don't want something too analytical. I want to be able to seat, enjoy and relax.

 

I've considering adding a DAC to my D2, but a local dealer told me that i should change my streamer and get a T3.

Initially i had this list of DAC in mind (5k price range):

  • T+A DAC 200 
  • Gen. Grand DSDac 1.0 Deluxe
  • Sould note D2
  • Aqua La Scala

Then, looking around, i found a great deal on a demo Lumin X1 ... a bit more than my budget ... but i can stretch.

Now my question: I read a lot of very positive review on the X1, but i'm a little nervous because it is a 5y old device ... and it will be a big investment, quesiton:

  • is it wise to go for a 5y old device
  • How long will i be able to enjoy it before services stop working on it?
  • Is it it better to get a new DAC and connect it to my D2 (and eventually upgrade to a more modern streamer later)?
  • MOST IMPORTANT: Will i get a better sound with the x1 compared to the D2 + a modern DAC in the 5k price range?

What do you all think?

 

best

 

T

 

128x128thibaultgeoui
designsfx
784 posts
 

@thibaultgeoui 

Your question is totally relevant when it comes to obsolescence- new products appear all the time. The X1 is a strong product and there still seems to be high demand for it.

On the other hand there is a lot to be had by using a separate dac and a streaming transport. I’m currently using an Aqua La Scala Optologic MKII with a Lumin U2 Mini for streaming and the presentation is excellent. I purposely bought a streaming transport so that I know I’m hearing the dac I want to hear. I appreciate having that flexibility within my system.


 

gdnrbob
4,411 posts
 

@thibaultgeoui ,

I would say that a 'better' Dac would be your best move.

Though I should say I have no firsthand experience with Lumin products, but do have a bit of experience in the digital realm. So, YMMV.

IMHO, though a streamer can/coes provide the necessary quality input, the DAC does the heavy lifting, and I have no doubt you will hear the greatest difference in sound quality if you choose to update your DAC first.

-And, put a good power cord on it, if possible.

 

Bob

gerrie
107 posts
 

Goodmorning T, i am sitting with the same problem i have also the D2 and i am also thinking to connect him at an external dac. I was thinking to take the gustard A26 or the chord Qutest is somebody who try's this combinations.

goldprintaudio's avatar
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goldprintaudio
502 posts
 

Unfortunately, it's going to be a little hard to answer all your questions as I doubt there many people that have heard a D2 with your listed dac options versus an X1.  

Will the X1 eventually become obsolete, sure....but so will every other streamer that's out there currently. Even at 5+ years of age, the X1 is still one of the best streamers on the market (Imho).  We really are not seeing a ton of new streaming features in the near future that would lead to short term obsolescence.  

I personally lean towards one-box streamers as my preference, but if you really would like to have a separate dac, you may actually want to consider swapping your D2 for a U2/U2 Mini in combo with one of the dacs you are considering.  

gerrie
107 posts
 

Goldprintaudio, is that not throwing money away? Why dont use the d2? the dac is the one who must do the job.

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