2. amps-preamps
  3. 1228439266

System Advice Please

Well, it's time to do my part to help the ailing economy. I'm looking at an electronics upgrade in the near future and could use your input. Current system features Daedalus Audio DA-1.1 speakers driven by an ARC 150.2 and SP16 preamp. An Esoteric X-03SE and VPI Scout/Dyna 20XM round out the sources. Cables are Empirical Design all the way around.

Right now I'm focusing on the electronics with the goal of substantially improving my vinyl playback and getting better sound all around--particularly dynamics, detail and staging.

Here are the options I'm considering:

Art Audio/Gill Alana preamp with built in phonostage OR Modwright 9.0SWLP Signature Edition preamp. These will most likely be driving a McCormack DNA-125 with platinum mods or a stock DNA-500.

I'd appreciate your thoughts on either of these preamps, particularly those of you who have paired either with the McCormack amps.

The other option is to keep my ARC 150.2 and add an LS-26 with a PH5 phonostage.

Thoughts? Thanks everyone.
dodgealum
rhljazz
1,252 posts
 
The SP16 is a weak link. I would tend to agree with SNS and recommend the LS-26 with the PH-5 setup. That is, if you are basically satisfied with the ARC sound.
eee3
214 posts
 
Ditto the LS-26, PH-5 it will take you a lot further. There's a synergy with ARC equipment, that combination will be excellent.
samhar
1,048 posts
 
I have heard the LS-16 (5 mo ago) and the LS-26 (2 weeks ago) in my system. The LS-26 sounded to " HI-FI" for my taste, a big disappointment as I wanted to pair it with the VS-115 I already have, thinking it would be an improvement over my Calypso!!! The Calypso has a more "natural" sound, the 6H30 tubes in the LS-26 can't be switched out for NOS, so your stuck no home cooking there!

You might look into an Aesthetix Janus, used $3700.00 on Agon New $6500.00

I think replacing the LS-16 is a must first step.
eee3
214 posts
 
The 6h30's can be switched out to nos! Conus Audio and the tube store currently carry nos 6h30dr's. They're costly but they're available. $310 & $320pr.
samhar
1,048 posts
 
Ok you have a choice of ONE !!! I like having multiple choices from multiple companies affording me the opportunity to make fine adjustments. In the Calypso 12AX7's are the impute tubes (the body) having the largest affect on the sound and the 6922 are output tubes (the spices) and are used to make fine adjustments. An over simplification but the general idea IMHO.
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