Upgrade to PS Audio Direcstream Mk1 and Mac Mini?


Looking at upgrading my digital sources and potentially getting a streamer.  My Mac Mini just died so I need to do something- I use that for streaming Roon and Qobuz. I am also reading the excellent reviews for the new PS Audio Direcstream Mk2. I have the Mk1. People have recommended Rose150B.  The Rose150B seems to be a great streamer, potentially not as good as a DAC as the PS Audio MK1/MK2 and not a great pre-amp.    If I added a pre-amp to my chain like the Lamm 2.1 would I see a material improvement in sound vs going "direct" via the DAC?    Trying to figure out, do I keep a mac mini type music server and upgrade to PS AudioDirectstream Mk2. Do I replace my PS Audio MK1 with a Rose150B or am I going to need a separate streamer and a separate DAC.  

My current system: 

PS AudioDirectStream DAC/Bridge2 - connected to MacMini music server running - using PS Audio device as pre-amp
Thiel 7.2 Speakers
Lamm M1.2 Monoblocks 
 

Thx

Malcolm 

Ag insider logo xs@2xmwthorne

Thx @v-fi v-fi. I just purchased the Meitner MA3 DAC. I have contacted PS Audio to see if I can trial the new MK2 with Airlens versus this setup.  Things are coming together.  

I've enjoyed a Roon Nucleus Plus server, USB into my PS Audio DirectStream DAC, now the MK2 for several years now and highly recommend the combination.  Roon offers a Nucleus One for $499, I suspect it would sound awesome connected to your PS Audio DAC.

@mwthorne Nice, I hope you really enjoy it but also hope you get a chance to do the comparison.

I'm sort of mixed about the Airlens, not sure why as I'm usually fine with dedicated quality streamers even when they cost much more. But maybe since I got used to the DirectStream (original) with the built in Bridge streaming,  it seems weird to me that the newer one needs an outboard device for that. PS Audio will tell you the separates absolutely sound better but imho having it all integrated seems like a better approach for the end user. And if it doesn't sound as good then maybe that's a design/engineering problem.

In any case, please let us know your thoughts once you get the MA3, and especially if you end up with the PS Audio setup for comparison. Have fun!

@soix - adding the Lamm LL2.1 deluxe preamp has made a material difference in my system. Adding a whole new layer of detail that I have never heard especially in female vocals, piano, guitar. Improved soundstage and imaging.  I would not categorize it as warm as some tube sounding gear. It is incredibly neutral as many of the reviews describe.  Well worth the upgrade.  Interestingly I am not finding a huge difference with the Bugle Boy and Mullard tubes that came with the unit over stock. Some improvement but not material. On my amps changing to the Amperex pinch waist tubes was a 25% upgrade in sound to my ear. 

Glad to hear the Lamm was an improvement but can’t say I’m at all surprised. Likewise I’m pretty sure you’re gonna hear very significant improvements with the Meitner as you’re likely making big upgrades to both DAC and streamer, both of which are very important and impactful. Please let us know your impressions if you could, and congrats on the new pre.