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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
jacupmakeup OP
34 posts
 

@mdalton Now that you mention it, those Fyne F703SP speakers look pretty dope. Will try to demo them. Thanks :)

jacupmakeup OP
34 posts
 

@jmrrobbie1 I've always been interested in the Berkeley stuff. I'm sure your DAC sounds great. 

mdalton's avatar
mdalton
813 posts
 

cool.  am considering a move to a SET myself.  Have a long list of highly efficient speakers I’m trying to hear over time before I leap.  Alas, most are well above $20k!  But Devore is on my list as well.  Also, really encourage you to check out WVLs - they look unassuming, but are shockingly good.

jacupmakeup OP
34 posts
 

@jpag If a used Totaldac pops up, imma grab it. Enjoy!

ericba's avatar
ericba
150 posts
 

Rule of thumb, get the best speakers you can for your room set up with the sound signature you like. The rest will follow. I was looking to upgrade my Harbeth 30.2 and auditioned the Devore O96. The Devore O96 are fantastic. What a soundstage and organic sound! Unfortunately my room is not large enough. 11 feet wide.  Ended up with Dynaudio Contour Legacy. A pair in in 1000. No slouch either.

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