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Streamer/DAC combinations

Looking for opinions on Streamer/DAC combinations.  I am currently using a Node as my streamer and DAC.  Considering upgrading.  The options seem to be endless, so thought I'd solicit some of your opinions.  My node is currently running through a McIntosh C42 Preamp into a McIntosh MC352 Power amp.  Using Klipsh Forte IV's.  The node sounds good, but I think I may be leaving something on the table in SQ.  Not wanting to break the bank so to speak.  Maybe spend in the $2-3K area for budget.  Opinions???

128x128davegolf2424
jjss49's avatar
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jjss49
6,612 posts
 

Improved soundstage. I feel my streaming setup may be lacking in that area.

a few thoughts

1) make sure your networking front end is clean and well filtered (ether regen, lhy switch with nice clock, and/or network acoustics filters and the like ...) -- this can help soundstaging downstream in digital processing

2) you did not say which node you have... the node x should be better (still not great, but better) than prior versions whose dac noticeably dulls the sound and robs it of spatial info

3) a denafrips pontus is a nice dac that images well and brings a dose of midband/midbass warmth, otherwise a chord qutest or gustard r26 will bring even better delineated imaging with a greater sense of air and transient clarity

 

jzzmusician
156 posts
 

The current Node model has USB out.  It's what I use as in my system, USB sound better than spdif.

- Bob

oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
4,010 posts
 

I was using my Vault 2i with  RME dac which was good, bought the excellent sounding LAB 12 DAC 1 Reference.   Great sounding combo.   

I ultimately put the Vault in my second system.  It sounds great with my Integrated amp's built in DAC.   

I have Forte IV in my main system and the Vault / Lab 12 combo sounded great.  I ended up getting an Aurender , wasn't really looking to replace the Vault it's a great machine but I got such a great deal on an Aurender N200 I couldn't pass it up

Node/ Vault is a great streamer and pairing it with a great DAC is worthwhile.  

oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
4,010 posts
 

With DACs I think auditioning at home in your system is a must...   you are splitting hairs when it comes to DACs.  They are better than they have ever been.  

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benanders
234 posts
 

davegolf2424 OP

2 posts

 

Improved soundstage. I feel my streaming setup may be lacking in that area.  

Hi @davegolf2424 , why do you feel that way? If your music stream seems deficient, it’s more likely to do with the masters used by the service, and perhaps the way your speakers x room are rendering the files. Assuming all devices in between those two ends are reasonably competent, they should have less influence. Especially a streamer.

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