2. digital
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DAC/Streamer/PreAmp

I hope this question will allow everyone to have some fun. I have a pair of Focal Sopra 3 (I dont consider them bright, but just right), 2x REL S812 subs, and a Bryston 6bsst2 amp. I know it is a 3 channel amp. It was being used in my Movie Theater. Going forward I will be using it for a 2 channel system until I decide to buy mono blocks. This 2 channel system will only be streaming digital music, but might consider adding a photo stage later, so would like analogue inputs. The room is fully treated from 30hz on up, and is 16'w x 30'd x 10'h.  

 

I am looking for a Streamer/DAC/Preamp to run this system. I really do not want to add a computer to this system to run files through it. I prefer a plug and play solution. It can be one piece or 3 separates. I like a rich sound from top to bottom. I prefer a sound like Aretha Franklin over Allison Krause. I would like a big Soundstage. I also have 1 gig speed thriugh ethernet. The final item is the budget. I really like Value, so if you can come in below the budget it will be considered. $10-20k USD max. Will consider new and used.  I have considered T+A, Naim, Mola Mola, and some other manufacturers, but would like yalls input.

 

Let's Go!!!

dmaddox77
tubeguy76
147 posts
 

I’m really jonesing to hear a set of the Borresen X3 myself. 

ddgtt's avatar
ddgtt
44 posts
 

I would suggest the Mola Mola Tambaqui DAC ($13,500).  It is a Roon endpoint but you would need a Roon core (Nucleus or NUK). It has a very good digital volume control. But best of all, the sound is simply the best at anywhere near, or way beyond, its price. 

jbuhl's avatar
jbuhl
900 posts
 

I will stick with the "plug and play" comment. This unit can stream Qobuz and is also Roon ready in case you decide to go that route. Might have to look in the used market to get it under $20K

 

https://www.stereophile.com/content/mark-levinson-no-519-audio-player-digital-streamerplayercddacpreamp

 

There is also a Levinson No526 supposedly NIB over on usaudio for a steep discount.  That leave plenty of room for a nice separate Streamer.

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/650069654-mark-levinson-no-526/

hsounds
133 posts
 

I would say a Lumin P1. It is all of those things. Plus it has LEEDH volume control for great sound at any volume. Also it has an analog RCA/ XLR input. The power supply is linear. They say it is pretty close to the Lumin X1. I was setting up anti skate at a friends house yesterday and his P1 sounded amazing. Try to listen first to see if you like the sound signature with your Focals. I just heard the new Borensen speakers at Next Level Audio. Pretty amazing sound for $5500 with stands. Jays Audio Lab had a private event. They are supposed to be at AXPONA this year. 

ricred1
1,983 posts
 

I’ve been looking to replace my Chord Dave DAC for under $25K. I’ve had home auditions of the Rockna Signature, Mola Mola Tambaqui, DCS Bartok, and DCS Rossini APEX. In my system the Dave and Tambaqui are more a like than different. The Bartok(non-APEX) mask details and the Rossini APEX is too bright in my system. In my system, the Rossini has better separation of instruments, wider and slightly deeper soundstage than the aforementioned DACs, but my wife said she had a headache after several songs from the brightness. Next up will probably be a Ideon Ion DAC.

The Rossini produced the most significant differences between all of the DACs that I’ve listened to, but there still isn’t a night and day difference between any of them.

 

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