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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
curtisvill
76 posts
 

I would agree with @larryi  and recommend the synthesis amplifier. I had the exact same system, and it was amazing. I upgraded the amp to synthesis mono blocks, traded in the A40 for them, but wished I kept the A4 for a secondary system. The DAC is amazing and it punches way beyond its weight.

gareents
80 posts
 

I have a number of low powered tube amps: AirTight 300b, Aric Audio 300b, and Will Vincent ST-70 (push-pull KT-77) to name a few.

Of these, the Will Vincent ST-70 build is the best sounding and around $2000 new! 

If you match this with a passive preamp, such as one from Khozmo for around $800, you will have a fantastic front end. Perfect for your speakers.

Have fun hunting!

 -GAR

tinear123
250 posts
 

+1 for the AN Cobra integrated 

regaflush917 OP
13 posts
 

The common threads I'm hearing are 1) go bigger on one or two components (no incremental moves) and 2) look for an awesome tube pre-amp or integrated.

Perhaps this is exposing my ignorance, but I'm surprised by the recommendation of "pre-amp first". I didn't think this was the place to start to maximize yield on investment in my situation. Unsure if that's philosophy or evaluation of my specific pre-amp. If I used $6k towards a pre-amp, I'd be connecting a Bluesound Node 2i to a super nice pre-amp. I know there are a lot of variables, but @ghdprentice @zlone - can you confirm and/or elaborate?

soix
11,250 posts
 

I think what makes your situation a little different is you’re not just looking for improvements but also different sound characteristics.  Because of this I think it’s possible for you to make significant strides toward the sound you’re looking for without necessarily having to spend $6k on a preamp (I’d refer back to my recommendations above that don’t cost anywhere near that much but would sound much more like what you’re looking for).  
As for the preamp, I and many here have found the preamp to be as or even more critical than amps, and this can be even more pronounced with speakers that are easy to drive like yours are.  You’ll definitely want to upgrade your streamer as well, but a stopgap might be to get an upgraded linear power supply for the Node where a good one from Teddy Pardo, SBooster, or LHY costs around $400 and should at least hold you over until you can make a meaningful upgrade there.  That’s probably what I’d do FWIW.  Anyway, just some further thoughts I hope are at least somewhat helpful. 

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