2. amps-preamps
  3. 190579-192935

Help me build out my first system

Hi All,

New Audiogon member here, been a lurker for some time; thanks for all the tremendous info! I’m in the process of building out my first system and am hoping for some recommendations on streamer/dac and preamp. A friend has been kind enough to set me up with a McCormack DNA-1 (not yet in my possession) and a pair of Focal/JM Labs Electra 926s from a client who wanted to upgrade. 
 

At this point I’m trying to put together two sets of options: First, which components might really make the setup sing, not worrying much about budget (without going too nuts). And second, assuming a budget around $3000-$4000, what’s the best I can do?

 

The setup will live in a 14’x24’ room, and I’m in the process of building some panels for appropriate room treatment. Tidal is currently my preferred source, but am open to change based on compatibility req’s or being convinced of a better alternative for this application. I’d also like to allow for incorporation of a new turntable down the road. 
 

Am I thinking about this the right way? Thanks for your thoughts 

kdammeyer
vthokie83
843 posts
 

First I have no experience with your current equipment, but you have gotten some good recommendations. If you have $4,000, here is a good start:

Schitt Freya+ preamp - $850

Denafrips Ares 15th DAC - $1,150 (or better yet a used Denafrips Pontus II $1,400)

Used BlueSound Node 130 (not 2 or 2i) $375 (or better yet used Innuous streamer $1,400)

Decent cables - Zavfino makes great affordable entry level cables, Arcadia interconnects, Nova speaker cables. Supra cables makes very good entry level data cables; Excalibur USB cable $110, Cat8 ethernet cable $50 2 meters.

All of that would be around your $4,000 budget, and each component could easily be upgraded as you can afford later.....but this would be a very musical starter system that you'd love to listen to

 

vthokie83
843 posts
 

Forgot price: Zavfino Arcadia interconnects $188 1.5 meter pair, Nova speaker cables $390 2.5 meter pair....both use very high quality PC-OCC (Pure Copper Ohno Continuous Cast) copper, smart geometry, and quality materials

kdammeyer OP
11 posts
 

Thanks all for your input, the advice and recommendations are greatly appreciated. Been a busy couple weeks but will report back soon; have gotten out to hear a few things and starting to put a plan together. 

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