I have a Marantz 8005 with the Modwright mod/tube output stage/power supply. Wonderful. Closest to analog I have gotten with CD's. Now playing with streamers and modern DACs like the Chord stuff and Schiit Yggy... they are close but still not there for me
Looking to upgrade DAC from SA8005
I'm currently using the SA8005 as a redbook player and DAC for the Aries Mini, being fed into a stock RLD-1 and a recent Ultra Platinum upgraded DNA-1.
I want to explore options of a DAC and preamp and looking to stay under the $1500 mark if poss.
My search has included is a PSA Stellar Gain Cell to also be used as a preamp.
Bryston BDP-2
Benchmark DAC-2 (also as preamp)
Yggdrasil (possible depending on price)
I do like the option to keep the HT bypass and remote function.
I feel the hard part is finding one that maintains clarity in the transients of the higher frequencies and not become analytical.
The 8005 does a good job of providing depth, focus, imaging and retaining a very life-like stage presentation but midrange clarity and the upper registry transients need a bit of refinement..seems slightly rolled off and may not be the fault of the 8005, could very well be the 21 YO stock preamp.
I would like to try a Directstream sometime but for now this is the pricepoint I'm at. Another reason is at the price of the DSD there are other options.
Thanks, all input and criticism welcomed
I want to explore options of a DAC and preamp and looking to stay under the $1500 mark if poss.
My search has included is a PSA Stellar Gain Cell to also be used as a preamp.
Bryston BDP-2
Benchmark DAC-2 (also as preamp)
Yggdrasil (possible depending on price)
I do like the option to keep the HT bypass and remote function.
I feel the hard part is finding one that maintains clarity in the transients of the higher frequencies and not become analytical.
The 8005 does a good job of providing depth, focus, imaging and retaining a very life-like stage presentation but midrange clarity and the upper registry transients need a bit of refinement..seems slightly rolled off and may not be the fault of the 8005, could very well be the 21 YO stock preamp.
I would like to try a Directstream sometime but for now this is the pricepoint I'm at. Another reason is at the price of the DSD there are other options.
Thanks, all input and criticism welcomed