128x128

dmcneilr

Responses from dmcneilr

What is the Best Sounding Stand Mount Speaker in the world?
I currently own both the Focal Diablo Utopias and the Borresen 01s, and while both are truly fantastic, the Borresen 01s are by far the best standmounts I've ever heard.  They just break onto that next level we're all tirelessly searching for and ... 
Most beautiful turntable under $5k
EAT C-Sharp  
To extend Ethernet to remote location, are Powerline extenders or Mesh systems better?
+1 for TP-Link. Have (2) on Lumin streamers at opposite ends of the house and they sound as good as my other hardwired streamer.   
For SACD fans only
Was looking at the Esoteric too, but I ended up going with the Marantz SA-10. I won’t bore with the details but the Marantz just sounded better than anything else I tried under $20k.  
DAC That Punches Above Its Price Point
Audio-gd 
RMAF 2021 Cancelled
I’m heartbroken. I’ve been to RMAF multiple times and it really is the most chill, friendliest show in the US. I hope another group takes up the mantle and keeps it going. I’ve only seen an increase in HiFi interest since COVID hit.  A lack of con... 
Best sub for music,
Had several over the years (Velodyne, NHT, JL Audio, etc.) and for music REL is out in front by a mile. Their S series and Reference line can’t be touched.  
Can a Classe SSP replace a dedicated stereo pre?
I have a Classe Sigma SSP MKII as well. I had the same home theater + 2-ch hifi conundrum. I’m very satisfied with it. Is it my Aavik U-380 for 2-ch, no. It is however the best blend of both elements that I’ve found.  I would look for an SSP MKII ... 
Need a DAC Recommendation.
Audio gd. Their DACs punch way above their weight class. I didn’t believe it until I actually heard it. There are a couple between $1-2k that would make you fall in love. Someone previously mentioned the R8. It’s a $5k unit all day going for under... 
First tube preamp recommendations (under $5k)
Audio gd Vacuum HE1 XLR. Crazy overbuilt for its modest $3k price tag and sonically exquisite. Ended up replacing my PrimaLuna EVO400 even though that wasn’t the plan. It surprised me and sounded that good.  
Class D for a Tube Lover
Classe Audio Sigma Amp2 (200x2) would fill the bill and a mint used one comes in under your budget.  
Music streamers
+1 for Lumin 
High end Class D amps?
I’m currently running an Aavik U-380 integrated. It replaced a great set of A/B mono blocks because it has all the warmth of the A/Bs coupled with all of the previously mentioned Class D benefits too. Class D has clearly turned the corner in my op... 
Best 40 to 50k used speakers
My vote (purchase) was for Raidho D-4.1s. Last Raidho model with pure Borresen DNA. They are beautiful and sound great with my wildly eclectic musical choices. I have Focal Utopias too, and while the Focal sound is really good, it can’t compete wi... 
Speaker upgrade around 100k retail
Vote here for Raidho/Borresen