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Digital front end upgrade


VDS

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Hi,

wondering if anyone has tried any high end digital streamers, or DDC’s and noticed a worthwhile difference. I’m using a Bluesound 2i with Terminator 2  Dac. Very noticeable improvement over laptop and previous Orchid Dac.  I love so much about horns, but smoothness doesn’t seem like a chief attribute of horns.  

Trying to increase smoothness without adding a veiled or muddy sound.
I rotate between a Pass XA25 and FW F3, with and Aric Audio 6sn7 pre. 

Just looking for experiences with high end digital front ends.

Ted

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I streamed from a laptop for a long time and really liked it. I ditched the laptop and also went with a Bluesound Node 2i. I use a seperate DAC (Schiit Modius) and I'm borderline amazed at how good the sound quality is.

 

Combined with a warm/smooth sounding amp and preamp.....I can dig it.

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You have a great DAC. I think the Node is your issue. I replaced mine with a Lumin U1 mini and it was more natural sounding, less hi fi.

 

Im not sure horns will ever be as smooth as conventional speakers, but honestly, I wouldn’t want them to be. But you can take the perceived “edge” away with smart equipment choices and good placement.

 

Shakey

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What have you done to the room? If nothing start there.

 

I bet it already sounds great. If you want to see if there is more to squeeze out I'd try a DDC like @Fido over replacing the node.

 

6SN7 pre and FW F3 is a darn good foundation. I'm running similar with Denafrips Venus II. After lots of changes I'm good for a bit.

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