2. amps-preamps
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What should I upgrade

Hello,

I'm putting this here because I'm not sure of where to put it. I have a very modest system.

-NAD C162 pre amp
-Aragon 2004 amp
-Emotiva XDA-1 DAC
-Squeezebox Touch/Sonos pulling files off of an NAS
-Silverline Minuet Supremes
-Rel T3 sub, which I actually rarely use

I really like my system, but am kind of getting an itch to get something different. The speakers are pretty much here to stay for a while. So far, they're the best for me, considering my space/placement limitations.

I think I'm also going to stick with the SBT and Sonos. I really like the convenience of not having to deal with disks. I have grand kids.

So, given what I have for a pre, amp and DAC, what should I upgrade that will probably give me an appreciable improvement?

Thanks,
Tony
tonyangel
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
I still say get a tube integrated amp, you will get more bang for the buck, which is especially important on the lower end of the money scale. At your price level (NAD, Aragon), an integrated amp would make the most sense. Do not dismiss integrated amps, I have heard a $6500 integrated amp outperform $20,000 separates.

I don't know anything about your DAC, but your speakers are good bang for the buck. Couple them with a tube integrated amp and you'll have a very nice little rig.
tonyangel OP
309 posts
 
How much power would I need in a tubed integrated? I know that part of the hype regarding the Minuets is that they can be run on a low powered tube amp, but they really come into their own with some power behind them.
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,059 posts
 
TonyAngel,

What aspects of the sound or features otherwise are you looking to improve?

DOn't know how to suggest anything without knowing your goals first. "Improvement" means something different to everyone unfortunately.
Post removed 
tonyangel OP
309 posts
 
Ok, I was looking around for some tubed gear and came to the conclusion that tubes aren't for me. Not right now, anyway. All of my equipment has to go into the entertainment center. I'm guessing it's going to get hot in there.

As for what I want. I want it to sound better. I want it to sound more lifelike. I want it to bath me in rich tones.

Bob, I understand what you are saying about high passing the Minuets, but I'm kind of wondering if we are hearing the same thing out of the Minuets. When it comes to bass, the Minuets' only crime, as they say, is one of omission. I have yet to hear any distortion coming from the Minuets at any levels that I am comfortable with.

In any case, I will go to my local shop this weekend and see if they have an active crossover that I can borrow.
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