zstokes

Responses from zstokes

Need your recommendation on a 5 or 7 channel amp
The Monolith amps at Monoprice are manufactured by ATI, and IMO are a good value. They test well, and I like mine powering KEF LS50 Metas. Heavy as all git out, though. 
Have you moved away from full range to standmount speakers + subs?
I just replaced my 20 year old JMLab (Focal) Chorus 716s with the matching center channel with 3 Kef LS50 Metas sitting on Solidsteel stands and to me it's a massive upgrade. I replaced a cheap subwoofer with the Kef KC62 and it's like a veil over... 
Combining home theater with two channel
I also just purchased an NAD T778 and Monolith x5, with the intention of adding a Holo Spring 3 DAC KTE, and switch between them with a Goldpoint SA2 https://www.goldpt.com/sa2.htmlThe Spring 3 KTE can be ordered with a discreet, hardware Class A ... 
The Amazing World of Streaming Audio - Video Music
For EDM/Electronica, the Cercle youtube channel has some amazing live sets recorded in really interesting locations.  One was even done from a hot air balloon in Turkey, and it's fantastic visually and aurally as well. 
Any idea which headphones I’d like?
That's a nice, healthy budget.I too am moving away from 2 channel and into a good headphone setup.I already have the Focal Elegias for a closed back, and I'm waiting on a backordered Schiit Lyr 3.  I plan on also adding a Bifrost 2 and a pair of M... 
Spotify HiFi imminent?
I'm good with plain old 24/192.  But I agree that competition is good. 
Good amp pairing for Zu Dirty Weekend?
I'm looking to get a pair of Dirty Weekends during their next production run, orders available in November.  I'm *hoping* to also get an Omen Center Channel, all three speakers will be driven by an Aegir in balanced mono.I can't imagine the DW's w... 
Basic Tidal streamer to USB DAC
Thanks for this, OP.  Exactly what I'm looking for. 
Your suggestions would be greatly appreciated
Curious which pre you selected, if you've in fact purchased one yet? 
Cars. What does the typical audiophile drive?
I used to want expensive cars. Now, I love only spending $43 to fill up the tank. I love my '12 Ford Focus Titanium. The Sync system sucks, but it's overall the best vehicle I've owned so far. 
DAC recommendation for an entry level system
Spotify does indeed stream at 320kbps, even through a Sonos system (as I am doing)http://www.sonos.com/support/help/3.4/en/Sonos_User_Guide/Chap07_new/Spotify.htm 
Suggestions short 3' tall floorstander?
If you can drive a 4ohm load, the Vienna Acoustics Mozart Grands are 37" tall, and really nice speakers. Very musical. 
Emotiva XPA-5 vs. Parasound A51?
My old system - JM Labs Chorus 716 mains, Chorus CC and surrounds - were all run from an Emo UPA-5 (200x5 into 8ohms). My speakers are a bit more sensitive than the B&Ws, but the Emo made them come to life.I don't think you have anything to lo... 
Best drink while listening to your rig?
@Calloway - Phelps Cab is OUTSTANDING. Hell of a nice choice.A lyric from MF Doom: "Oh I know, y'all wanna see a wino? Get the wine out"Indeed. 
Sonos to Amp - is simplicity better?
I've decided - without even doing the test - to do two things:1. I'm going to buy the Emotiva XDA-2 DAC, and 2. I'm also going to send one ZP90 to Wyred-4-Sound for modification. I want the digital out on the ZP90 to upsample to 24/96.The DAC will...