I would recommend the Audio Research REF6 over the 5SE. I use an MSB Discrete DAC with a Premier Power Base with the renderer module, and a solid state hard drive connected with CAT8 cable, all managed by Roon using an iPad next to my listening chair. It's a great setup. To me, Roon is a critical component!
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!!!
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@audphile1 + 1,000,000 |
@bcrosley - welcome to the forum. I’d like to hear more about your comparison of the MU2 the MSB -- which version of MSB and what were the other system components?
Yeah, seems there have been a lot of threads about preamps lately, both here and WBF. It’s making me wonder if I should try out some preamps again. I thought it seemed like a good idea to simplify by going from tube separates to SS integrated, but maybe not. |
To respond to your Question of why I suggest the Grimm MU & MU2 and what corresponding equipment I have: I have had two configurations, one with the MU1 output into a MSB Discrete DAC and then just the MU2 as a Roon server, Streamer, DAC. My system consist of a VAC Master pre-amp, a Boulder 1160 power amp, a Thorens TD124 turntable, and Sonus Faber Amati G5 floor standers. I have a Shunyata Altaira grounding system. Most connections are balanced (a must for the Grimm products). I found the MU1/MSB-DAC combo to be the best digital sound I have ever heard (until the MU2). The sound is very full, detailed, and especially not harsh. I then traded the MU1 and for the MU2 and found even a richer, low noise sound. I have not yet tried the MU2 preamp directly into my power amp since I have the VAC Master pre-amp which overlays everything with a very harmonic layer due to its tubes. |
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