@signaforce - Interesting post, I have found AI to be a useful tool for helping make decisions between components that I cannot compare in my home where it matters. Ask a question related to some critical factor between two pieces of equipment and it will help you sort it out...it doesn't have all the answers any more than any of us do, but its a non-judgemental opinion with no axe to grind. That neutral opinion forces me to confront my own particular biases and think outside the box.
Thoughts on DAC option
Current DAC is the original Auralic Vega . This was a HUGE upgrade in sound quality from a Cambridge Audio DAC Magic.
And things are good right now. Well, mostly, it's not like we are generally blessed with freedom from the desire to upgrade!
And now I have an option of a Chord 2qute. My main issue with the current setup is the fatigue on some music. EDM is generally fantastic, however rock is often harsh. Voices are great.
So the question is whether the Chord could smooth off the sharper edges of things.
All feedback gratefully received.
System is:
Sources - PC and Auralic Aries Mini
Amp - Prima Luna Frank Hybrid Integrated
Speakers - Krix Harmonix 2
Interconnects and speaker cables are average but not the biggest factor here from what I can tell.
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@celtic66 I love those lyrics...perfect for the place I am in life. Thanks for posting that, it made me smile |
The Link is the latest Model Released of the Topping D90, which is similar monies to the Chord as a new purchase price. The user adjustable interface in the new D90, is going to receive much favour and might be the option that creates the success of its sales campaign. Time to come of the Gas a little, act in haste - repent at leisure. I strongly recommend when budgeting $1K, learning what is on offer from the D90 III is to be a worthwhile undertaking. |
Before spending on such tweaks as fancy cables and isolation footers, or even before spending thousands on new components, I'd take a close look at the acoustic properties of the room. Fixing slap echo, killing first reflections -- those are things proven by science and thousands of listeners to improve imaging and tonality and reduce listening fatigue. |
I am surprised no one has suggested your source is a weak link. I am a firm believer in the "garbage in is garbage out" in audio. I am not familiar with the Auralic Aries Mini but my internet search suggests it is dated and was never an audiophile component when it was new. I missed your price point in the discussions, I have an Innuos streamer and love it and the Sense app, but I know their entry products are getting expensive. A new or used streamer is where I would look to upgrade your system. If you can afford an Innuos or something similar I think it would punch the ticket for you. |
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