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Need to downsize my system

I have a lovely system with Sonus Faber Serafino Tradition speakers, Ayre AX5-Twenty integrated, Chord Dave DAC, and a cambridge audio streamer.

I’m moving to London (from US) this summer and am liquidating the above system: among other factors, I will not have a dedicated study/listening room but instead will need to either double duty with the family room or a smallish (12x13 feet) bedroom.  So ideally I’ll move to a system where speakers are less imposing and smaller footprint (so likely standmounts) and an all-in-one streamer-dac-integrated system.  A two box setup (streamer+dac and integrated) could also be feasible.

I would love some recommendations on where to start.  An obvious alternative is to buy the Sonus Faber Guarneri G5 (which are basically the standmount and newer version of my Serafino) and Ayre EX-8.  I’m also open to the idea of a sub to complement the standmounts.

I listen mostly to classic rock and Jazz.  I’m sensitive to hard/shrill sound so the Sonus Faber house sound has been perfect for me.  Most important is the sound but looks also matter: an ugly rectangular box that sounds wonderful will likely not work for me.

I would love to hear any ideas.  Thinking of spending total of about 25-30K UKP and will consider demo/used.

deone
bassbuyer's avatar
bassbuyer
880 posts
 

Hegel H150 to go with your Sonos Faber speakers (I wouldn’t change your speakers if you have a pair that you love) and add the soon to be released updated SVS micro 3000 sub.  I like the Hegel simple look in black or white.  The H150 is a great streaming amplifier with inputs for other sources like a CD transport and/or turntable.  Best of luck with your move! 

 

jbuhl's avatar
jbuhl
1,109 posts
 

Im proly in the "down size soon" group.  I'm looking at a Hegel that can use Qobuz connect.   Integrated, Decent DAC, Streamer with Qobuz connect. 

dynacohum
833 posts
 

The EX-8 with Net2 card added is a great idea.  Now works with all “connect” sevices. If you love your speakers, the stand mounts of the same series are a safe bet. Dali Rubikore 2 are also forgiving yet detailed, and quite compact. 

retiredaudioguy
284 posts
 

Throwing out some random ideas:

The Harbeth P3ESR XD speakers may be worth a listen.  I enjoy the non-XD in my 2nd system and the reviews of the XD suggest they are like originals but better bass and highs.  

The Eversolo DMP A10 could be a good streamer/DAC/Pre. Once again I do not know that piece but use and enjoy the A8, the A10 has received excellent reviews.  It has dual subwoofer out connections and built in DSP.

Then add a good amp - I would suggest the Pass Labs XA 25 but it is pretty boring to look at!  If you want looks there are a number of smallish tube amps - the C-J CL 62SE for example.

 

jrareform's avatar
jrareform
181 posts
 

I agree with comments with staying in the same line with a subwoofer, unless you can find a nice dealer to let you demo some sets.  And I'm sure the UK has more hifi shops than here per square km so you will probably be able to find one if you aren't living in the middle of nowhere.  Borrow some electronics and speakers.  While you're at it, make sure you're power is clean by trying a Shunyata or Synergistic Research power conditioner/distributor.  Not sure if you have one but that gave me the most dramatic improvement besides speakers.  Highly recommend the Shunyata Gemini or even further up the chain if you can afford it!

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