2. digital
  3. 190618-89202

Solo streamer

I’m looking to replace my Cambridge CXN v2 with a streamer that has better SQ.  I want a streamer with no extra accoutrements: no DAC, storage capacity, etc., nothing but a streamer.  Is this available?

128x128rvpiano
rvpiano's avatar
rvpiano OP
2,659 posts
 

@audphile1

Sorry if you thought I was demeaning your choices.

I wasnt

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
4,986 posts
 

Bricasti also has a preamp by the way and it’s really good. However, it’s done right and it sounds it. 
just to compare…

DAC 3 HGC:

Bricasti M3:

 

rvpiano's avatar
rvpiano OP
2,659 posts
 

Thank you.

oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
3,842 posts
 

I’d always rather have a separate preamp.  I know DAC / Preamps are hugely popular but I wonder how many are just climbing the DAC ladder and have never had a really good preamp that meshes well with all their other gear.  
 

My last two preamps were a CJ and Zesto.  System sounded thin and honestly not that great with just a DAC driving my amps.    I tried it with several DACs and put the preamp right back on the chain. 

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
4,986 posts
 

@oddiofyl I compared the preamp in the M3 to Pass Labs XP-12 and XP-22. The M3 direct to amp is very transparent but not harsh. The only area where it lacks slightly is the soundstage depth and layering. This is where a dedicated preamp comes in. 

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