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JoLida 502b suitable for computer stereo system?

I'm a complete beginner planning on building a computer-based stereo system in my study, using Totem Arro speakers (4 ohm, 87 dB, 80w). Can the JoLida 502b integrated tube amp drive these? What's more important, does its computer line in allow me to do without a separate, external DAC convertor in the system?

I've seen another Goner's virtual computer system, and he uses a Musical Fidelity X-DAC V3 and Musical Fidelity X-150 integrated amp combined with Totem sStaff speakers.

A friend of mine (an NPR music critic) says the DAC is unnecessary if I get an amp with "digital in" that has its own internal DAC convertor. He is insistent I don't need a separate DAC. Is this so?

Will the JoLida 502b serve as both integrated amp and DAC? If not, any suggestions? My budget is about $750 to $1,500 for DAC and amp.
bblilikoi
sufentanil's avatar
sufentanil
782 posts
 
The only integrated amp I know of with a built-in DAC is the Music Hall. It should actually mate very well with the Totems, if you insist on having a built-in DAC. (The Music Hall Mambo sounds outstanding; very good for the price, especially when you consider it includes a DAC.)

Someone who is knowledgeable about both Totem and Jolida told me that the 302b sounds at least as good as the 502b with the Arro's. (I own the 302b and Arro's, so I can vouch for the match.) You might just consider the 302b and use the money you save for an outboard DAC.

I haven't heard either DAC you mentioned, but I know that the Bel Canto's have a great reputation. There are many reasonably priced DAC's on the used market that have followings, such as Audio Mirror, Ack, Birdland, California Audio Labs Sigma or Alpha, etc.

If space is a big concern for your system, I would definitely look into the Music Hall Mambo, since that seems to have what you're looking for.

Good luck,

Michael
bblilikoi's avatar
bblilikoi OP
99 posts
 
I'll look at the other DACs you mention and think of them along with the 302b as a possibility.

Space is a consideration, though, and the Mambo iteself isn't small either.

Do you like your Arros?
boband212's avatar
boband212
62 posts
 
the current model 502CRC is a powerful amplifier. it does not have a built in DAC. It is best anyway to have an external dac. built in dacs are usually not that good. the Jolida FX DACIII is nice, but you are trying to build a great system with a very low budget. save some more money. buy a 502CRC new, and an FX DACIII. you might want to look into Onkyo or Yamaha AV receivers from Best Buy.
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