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New DAC or New Speakers?

I’m planning to blow some money on my system and can’t decide if I should upgrade my DAC or my speakers. I’m going all in on one or the other, not both. 

I have ethernet and fiber optic switches feeding a Lumin U2 mini modded with an external power supply. Two USB reclockers going into an LTA Aero DAC. Running a VAC Sigma 170 tube amp to Harbeth SHL 5+ XD speakers with a sub. 

Everything sounds great, and I recommend all said equipment, but I have a chance to make an upgrade. I’m considering swapping the Harbeths for some Devore O96s or swapping the Aero for either a Totaldac, or maybe a used Aries Cerat Helene. 

I can’t decide which route to take....

jacupmakeup
gkelly's avatar
gkelly
1,056 posts
 

Both. I think we call it a second mortgage, but that is my understanding on how to achieve such endeavors😆. 

deep_333
2,450 posts
 

O96

 I’m considering swapping the Harbeths for some Devore O96s or swapping the Aero for either a Totaldac, or maybe a used Aries Cerat Helene. 

 

New DAC or New Speakers?

 

larsman's avatar
larsman
3,168 posts
 

You don't say what kind of music you listen to, but if it's rock, you might look into something other than those Harbeths. I had Super HL-5's for about 5 years and they sounded good, but when I replaced them with other speakers, I realized I'd really been depriving myself with the Harbeths of the punch and dynamics I like. Which is fine - they were not designed to really 'rock out', but they're awesome for classical, jazz, and smoother sounds. 

jacupmakeup OP
34 posts
 

Not really a rock guy. Harbeths sound great for what I’m into: world music, new jazz, ambient, beats. But I need a sub with them for sure. Thanks!

kennymacc
728 posts
 

If you really like the speaker/sub combo you have, just stick with them and go for a new DAC.  Me, personally, I'd go for new more full-range floor standing speakers.  Happy listening.   

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