I have a few (older but working fine) REL subs and recently bought a demo (couldn't help it...it needed a home) REL Classic 99 for under 1500 bucks. Great sub, and note that good subs can make any system sing (I use 2, the 99 with a Q150e 10" in my main system). Otherwise, a Freya (original version with NOS tubes) with a Node 2 into a Bifrost 2/64 works for me.
the itch
I got into this hobby about a decade ago with pretty entry level system, and after some time started making upgrades. Still modest by most standards, but not bad for my budget. I'm pretty happy with the system I ended up with, but can't help but wonder if there are any other smallish upgrades I could consider to maximize the primary components. Isn't that itch part of this hobby? My budget is under $1500, and I prefer used gear to maximize my dollars. Aesthetics matter and all my gear is silver. My listening tastes vary widely, reggae, rock, electronic, classical, opera, indie, folk, disco, older pop, 70s, 80s, 90s, etc. Heres my current system:
Focal Aria 936
Schiit Freya +
Bluesound Node X
Parasound A23+
Technics SL-1200MK7
Audio-Technica AT-VM95ML
Schiit Audio Mani 2
Straightwire Rhapsody S (RCA phono to pre)
Kimber Kable Hero (RCA Node to pre)
AudioQuest Red River (XLR pre to amp)
Kimber Kable 8PR (speaker)
Here are a few of the changes I've considered:
- One idea was a better phono-pre, like a vincent pho-701
- Another was a dedicated DAC, but I can't find good info on how much better than whats in the node X I can afford. I was thinking a Denafrips Ares if its really that much better than the X's ESS 9028Q2M Sabre DAC, which I've read is "very good".
- If I stick with the node X DAC, upgrading it with a Linear Power Supply seems a worthy and cheap upgrade.
- A sub like the REL Classic 98. The Arias are actually decent with bass and I've read this may be unnecessary for my music-only listening (no home theater). But if it would be noticeable I'd consider it.
Thanks for any thoughts and opinions! And maybe the answer is to save for bigger upgrades and enjoy what I've got for now!
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- 23 posts total
Nice system. You’ve got to scratch that itch. I suggest upgrading your DAC. It will make the most noticeable difference in your sound of all the tweaks you listed, in my experience. I like the NOS DACs. The Holo Audio Cyan 2 I have in my main system is the best I’ve heard. Definitely an upgrade from the Bluesound Node N130 that’s now in another system. Enjoy your ongoing musical journey! |
The power supply upgrade on the Node is a HUGE upgrade. Do it. Mine is the Node N130, with the Polish internal power supply upgrade and a Chinese linear external power supply. I no longer use an outboard DAC on the Node. Might be selling my CD player. https://pd-cf.com/produkt/bluesound-node-2021-gen-3-upgrade-smpsu-kit/ |
Thanks for all the fantastic feedback. Its given me a lot to chew on. I'll look at the options and see what makes the most sense to me for this system. Sounds like I did a decent job putting it together for this level, but I do understand any material upgrade is going to be a significant one. I'm starting to learn about next tier gear to understand what kind of budget I'll need. |
- 23 posts total