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$6k for DAC/Pre/Power Amp for Audio Note ANE/LX

I recently purchased Audio Note AN-E/LX speakers for my small, dedicated music room to replace Harbeth P3ESR speakers. I currently have an NAD C658 and C298 pre/power amp. They aren't the ideal for these speakers - lacking in dynamics, warmth, detail, and full presentation. I'm looking for a replacement pre-amp, amp, and DAC (to be paired with Bluesound Node 2i). 

I'm seeking recommendations for all three that have great synergy together, can pull out the best in these speakers given my music profile and sound preferences, and are within my budget.

A couple of guiding considerations: 1) I'm drawn to low powered class A or tube amplification (though I have limited experience with tubes to date), 2) leaning away from an integrated amp at this time (easier upgrade path and experimentation), 3) limited time now to audition gear at local dealers, 4) preference to buy used.

Budget: ~$6k total

Music Preferences: Jazz, Blues, Rock, Early Electronica, Alternative Hip Hop

Thanks for any suggestions.

regaflush917
ghdprentice's avatar
ghdprentice
9,497 posts
 

Given the quality of your speakers. I would consider investing in one or two components at a time and raising your investment level. I would recommend either spending your current budget on a preamp or on an integrated amp. You will get a big improvement in sound quality. Then after a year or two, consider purchasing an amp (if you had purchased just a preamp), or a high quality DAC.... and finally the year after a high quality streamer. 

My rule of thumb is that you want to invest in your components about 15 - 20% of the value of your whole system. So speakers around 30% and each component about 15%... preamp, amp, DAC, and streamer. 

Long term it is cheaper to do one component at a time as opposed to small increments of increase to all components at once. You still enjoy each upgrade, but when you are done you have a synergistic fully realized system. You can concentrate on each component exclusively and carefully choose your tuning of the sound as you go. 

Anyway, consider this classic audiophile process to upgrade. 

soix
11,250 posts
 

Agree with @ghdprentice that it can be tough to find three pieces at once that synergize to your liking.  I’d be more inclined to get one component and then see where you wanna go from there.  That said, I think pairing this pre and amp would be a sublime combo given what you’re looking for.  Add a Denafrips Pontus 15th and you’d be right around your budget, and you could add an Iris or Hermes DDC (for i2S) later for a significant performance boost for not all that much $$$.  Just one idea FWIW.

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/650228633-don-sachs-model-3/

https://tmraudio.com/fresh-arrivals/valvet-e3-stereo-power-amplifier-1-3/

jetter
3,161 posts
 

A contrary view but I would first purchase a new DAC before the pre and amp.  I have a node 2i that I use with a vintage but updated Museatex Meitner DAC.

When sent away my DAC to have it "refreshed/modded" I did not stream whatsover as without it in my system I thought the DAC in the 2i was lacking in all the ways that you describe your sound.  Placed the modded DAC back in the system and all returned to sounding great.

marco1's avatar
marco1
709 posts
 

I know you said you’d prefer separates but you really need to consider the AN Cobra.  I listened to it with your speakers and it sounds VERY nice.  Used it fits the budget too!

kennyc
3,037 posts
 

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