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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
32 posts
 

@mdalton those WVLs look very cool

mdalton's avatar
mdalton
810 posts
 

Those are all great speakers, but other than the Devores, I’m not sure they’re SET-friendly.  Something to think about.

1bitsoul's avatar
1bitsoul
34 posts
 

My nudge, given your VAC and tastes.

If you want a clear shift toward energy and presence, audition Fyne F703SP right next to the DeVore O/96. Pick the one whose midrange color you love more; both will light up with the VAC.

If you want to retain Harbeth virtues but feel a step up everywhere, try QLN Prestige 5 first.

If you’ve been secretly wishing for “studio crisp with real shove,” book time with Acora MRC 2.

charles007100
236 posts
 

If you want to get rid of the sub go all in with Volti, your budget buys you a nice Volti audio speaker…you get  a tweeter, midrange horn and a woofer all in one box with a nice grill…go figure..

jacupmakeup OP
32 posts
 

@1bitsoul Thanks, the O96 sound great with my VAC. And I have a really good feeling about the QLN Prestige 3s and love the way they look. A lot of it is gonna come down to looks and size. These might be the top 2 contenders. 

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