27-Jan-2015, 18:26
(This post was last modified: 27-Jan-2015, 18:32 by marcbrown.
Edit Reason: not complete
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(16-Jan-2015, 13:50)ARL67 Wrote: I just got my new D200 yesterday -> YIPPEE !!!
My audio pal also got a new D120 yesterday, and we both bought Kef LS50 a month ago as a "starter speaker" for our respective Devialets.
My previous setup was modified Audio Aero Capitole MK2-SE ( additional modes inside ) fed into Coda CM Ultra 600 watt monos ( amps are about 9 years old now, but former Coda top model ), and also a Nuforce 7-channel digital amp ( using only 2 channels)
In anticipation of Devialet, I built an Intel i7 Win7/Foobar PC with SSD, and used that to feed the DAC input of the Audio Aero via SPDIF. My pal with the D120 has built-up a Mac-Mini for his purposes and is using USB output.
BUT ... I also bought a used Bryston BDP-2 this week, and have to say I luv the dead quiet sonics coming out if it. The BDP-2 is a network streamer, AND can play music off of hard drives directly connected to its numerous USB ports. However, I opened the hood and installed a 1 TByte SSD ( there is location for a 2.5" drive ) instead of hanging a USB drive off it. Actually, inside there is a second SATA port running to the back of the unit for an eSATA device. This connector could be used for a 2nd internal SSD/SATA drive.
So I am going to roll with the BDP-2 feeding my D200, via AES/EBU or USB.
I prefer having a hardware appliance like the BDP-2 , vs a PC / Mac-Mini ( my needs are simple )
I am going to grab a Shunyata ETRON Anaconda AES/EBU and an AudioQuest Diamond USB and test out.
I am also on the hunt for a Berkeley Alpha USB ( usb-spdif converter )
I will sift through those combinations, and select a "winning combo".
... then on the hunt for a larger speaker
The Kef LS50 really knock my socks off, but I will either need a sub or go to a floor stander
I see KEf R900 are on the SAM list, and that is an affordable full-ranger.
Oh, and what do I think of the D200 ?
The first couple tracks I listened too I was "underwhelmed", but the more tracks I listened too, it became very obvious that the D200 is freaking awesome !
It is surprisimg the bass output of the SAM'd LS50. If I wasn't into Rock music or like my music with the bass wallop, one could easily forgo subs.
- Andy ( in Waterloo, Canada )
Please keep us posted on your audio journey. I am especially interested in the Berkeley usb to SPDIF convertor. Also agree about SAM, my 2 subs are almost not needed. Happy listening!