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

@kirkwallace Yeah, you're probably right about going with a speaker upgrade.

The Aero is amazing, especially for the price. I had the chance to AB it against the Aqua La Scala MKII (not the latest), which used to be the hottest DAC in the land and costs double the Aero. I put some of the best possible tubes in the La Scala and it did not compete with the Aero. It is awesome. And yeah, I have way too many tubes for it. Hit me up if you want some, lol. 

 

@jacupmakeup , LOLz

i had heard others say the same thing about the Aero vs the Aqua la scala.  Good to hear it again! 
 

and if you do in fact get rid of the aero and want to de-accession some tubes, do please dm me.  I am sure we can come to some sort of mutually satisfactory arrangement….

Speakers are the most subject/personal choice in any system. You should be set on these first and feel they are your long term end game....plus logistically they are bulky & difficult to move. A night and day difference in configuration: horn - line array - 3 way - 4 way - tweeters...a very personal choice what sounds best to you....and even more so on how you listen....analog, digital, stream, HDMI/TV. It takes a lot of time, listening sessions (travel) to hear, and effort to lock in on a speaker choice. You have really good speakers....if you are not set or feel the need to add a Sub…time to upgrade.
DACs more of a narrow niche...at your price point you can get a exceptional DAC and likely a good clock to match. My last & final component I chose to put into my system was the Berkley Audio Alpha 3 DAC. I would also offer that new & better DACs coming out every year. 
Buy your end game speakers...& get a decent quality (used) DAC now...down the road, if you feel the need = upgrade the DAC in 5 years. 
 

Maybe first treat your room if not treated. Even a little goes a long way. Speakers are  most important.

Without question, change the speakers.  Differences between DACs are rarely night and day, but changing your speakers will have you up late into the night rediscovering your music collection.