the right way is called separates
my setup : Lumin U2 - R2R DAC Rockna Wavedream XLR - dual mono passive preamp Big Hattor - amp Simaudio Moon W8
This is a pretty tough ask as most R2R DACs tend to be just DACs. The only thing I can think of is the Gustard R26, but it’s well below your price target and not sure if the preamp section is fully balanced or Class A. Is there a reason you want/need everything in one box? Quality aside, it’s obviously also extremely limiting in options. |
@designsfx thanks for the suggestion on the Bricasti. I don’t feel like pushing it past 10k for now, but, will look to try/ land something used. @soix , looks like there are some rave reviews on the gustard’s (what a bizarre name) streamer+r2r dac sound quality, but, the preamp section is lackluster, it seems.
@pavel_dosko , I am of the belief that a integrated streamer+dac+preamp unit eliminating unnecessary cabling and non-merging of different design ethos’ from different manufacturers can churn out better in execution. I experience it in my multichannel rig....just looking to try that out in my 2 channel rig with some competent manufacturer. Indeed, it is never a good idea to throw any high power amp sections in the same chassis and that needs to be separate. |