Tony J

Just a quick update I set up the the Node 2 late last night and got a good hour or so of listening. Setting it up was very easy once connected to my network via Ethernet it auto updated to the latest version. I started with Spotify using the desktop app. no hitches, sound quality was good with Bluesound dac but honestly not that big of a difference from my peachtree's Dac (Everything in the system was the same components other than the Bluesound and a new pair of Zu Audio Wylde interconnects). Now for Tidal Masters, there was a very big difference in the music, It was more open I could hear better seperation between instruments and noticed more of the *little things* and vocals were more clear (If you closed your eyes it was almost as if you were there). Now keep in mind this is going from Spotify"s 380 kbps to Tidal's MQA. So far Im happy with the Bluesound after my limited time using it just wanted to give my initial impressions.

I plan on mostly playing Tidal and Spotify with it. I am really interested in A B ing Tidals MQA to their CD quality to Spotify 380kbps. I am also in the process of ripping my CDs and playing them (still slightly newish to some of this I'm using EAC for the CDs). And yes the Tidal Masters is MQA.

I just ordered a bluesound node 2, I will be using it with a Peachtree pre and amp out to my Forte IIs. I plan on using this setup mostly for streaming Tidal and Spotify. I will post my thoughts once it gets here and is all set up.

@wstrickland1 Congratz on the Sonica Ive read many good reviews on it and it sounds like your enjoying it. I actually went with Bluesound Node 2 (got one on ebay new for 390) I would have preferred the Sonica but it was alittle out of my price range. No Deezer support either but I can try out Tidal's MQA. I should have it by the weekend and will post my thoughts. I will play around but think I will use the Burr Brown Dac in the Node instead of the peachtree Pre. Actually is there any benefit of sending the Analog out to my peachtree pre Or should I go straight into the Peachtree 220 amp.

Gratz on the Forte IIs, I got mine just a few weeks ago hooked up to Peachtree pre and 220amp. They are hands down the best sounding speakers I've owned so far. At some point you may want to consider upgrading the crossovers. And there are alot of mods for them you can find on here. I have not tried any of the mods yet but will be building a pair of custom stands to raise the mids closer to ear level. Enjoy

OPPO Sonica is a little more than I wanted to spend but considering the reviews and having most of what I'm looking for its on my short list. Only thing I'm not sure if or how I can play Deezer through it. If anyone can confirm if it's possible please let me know. Thanks Tony

Thanks I'll look into the Sonica and your feedback with it.

Hi All, Currently I have been using my son's ps 4 to stream spotify premium via optical to my Peachtree pre to Peachtree 220 amp to Forte II. I'd like to free up the ps 4 and improve the source as well and maybe try Deezer hifi for lossless music. ( not sure if I'm gonna try Tidal or MQA). My budget is around 300 to 600. I've been looking at Sonos connect, bluesound node2, arcam rplay or even Chromecast audio. I'd prefer one with and Ethernet connection. Also If I went with the CCA or one of the others would it be better sending the signal digitally right to my Peachtree pre or even using a schiit bifrost dac for better sound quality. Also ease of apps to control from phone and or computer is important. Thanks in advance... Tony

Just got my Forte IIs today (crites XO n Tweeters), currently using Peachtree Nova Pre to Peachtree 220 amp. This was moved from another setup I had but may stay w Forte's for now ;]..

@ Ceptorman I have no Problem buying the Brew, as a matter of fact Im drinking Saranac Pilsner now as I have my first listen on the Fotre"s. So I made the 7 hour round trip today to get these Forte's II home. Im listening to them now and while not completely set up properly (as far as gear n placement) Im in awe. Great presence, good base, and only pushing them alittle atm. Using my peachtree nova pre and 220 amp, playing spotify through an optical cable. I turned it up about 1/4 to 1/3 on dial and these F*****G rock... ;] Thanks again All will be posting more questions and reading up some more... Cheers Tony

Hi All, I have 2 Forte IIs these will be for a 2 channel music system mostly (70% music 30% movie) ld like connect my DVD via optical or digital coaxil, PS 4 via optical (spotify), and my cable box connected to it). Id like some recc. on Pre Pro or Intergrated that go well with the Forte II (they have crites XOs and Twetters). Price range is 750-1000 new and used considered. I am considering a Peachtree or Emotiva or new Outlaw Audio RR 2160. I currently have it hooked up to my Peachtree Nova Pre and 220w Amp which sounds great btw. Thanks Tony

Thanks all, Fortes are about a week away I have to make a little 300mile road trip to pick them up.... Cabs were in mint condition and w Crites upgrades I couldn't pass them up and a really nice seller...

Hi All Just joined forums but have looked through many threads over the years on here. A lot of Great, valuable information. I have owned a few pairs of Klipsch in the past Hereseys, kg 4, kg 3.2. I am close to acquiring a nice PAIR of Forte II already upgraded w crites xo and titanium tweeters. These will be for a 2 channel setup. Anyway I'm sure I'll have some questions on gear and cables to go with them. Thanks Tony