Hi all,
I'm looking to upgrade my setup and was hoping for some recommendations, particularly for amplifiers. Here's what I've got currently:
Amp: Meier Corda Move(1), with a dedicated 12V DC supply
Phones: Denon D2000 (unmodded)
Source: Mac Pro (has optical out as well as USB)
This setup has me pretty satisfied but I like it in portable configuration even more (ie with 5.5G iPod and ALO line out cable). I can't quite quantify it, but when bypassing the Move's DAC in this way, the sound is fuller, more detailed, and with a more open soundstage.
In short: I'm pretty happy but suspect the Move's DAC is the weakest link and was looking to upgrade.
Here's what I've been thinking about:
1. Headamp Pico. Particularly based on some of the comments here on head-fi, which seem to rate the DAC quite highly.
2. Zero DAC + Little Dot IV. I would kindof prefer an all-in-one solution but this looks pretty good. I'm a newbie to tube amps though.
3. Meier Corda Cantante. Highly rated, and quite attractive.
I would also consider upgrading headphones, maybe some Darth Beyers, but recommendations appreciated.
My amp budget is $500-700, which means I can't quite stretch to the Meier Opera. Also my favourite music styles are IDM (ie electronic), some indie rock/pop. Last.fm profile.
I'm looking to upgrade my setup and was hoping for some recommendations, particularly for amplifiers. Here's what I've got currently:
Amp: Meier Corda Move(1), with a dedicated 12V DC supply
Phones: Denon D2000 (unmodded)
Source: Mac Pro (has optical out as well as USB)
This setup has me pretty satisfied but I like it in portable configuration even more (ie with 5.5G iPod and ALO line out cable). I can't quite quantify it, but when bypassing the Move's DAC in this way, the sound is fuller, more detailed, and with a more open soundstage.
In short: I'm pretty happy but suspect the Move's DAC is the weakest link and was looking to upgrade.
Here's what I've been thinking about:
1. Headamp Pico. Particularly based on some of the comments here on head-fi, which seem to rate the DAC quite highly.
2. Zero DAC + Little Dot IV. I would kindof prefer an all-in-one solution but this looks pretty good. I'm a newbie to tube amps though.
3. Meier Corda Cantante. Highly rated, and quite attractive.
I would also consider upgrading headphones, maybe some Darth Beyers, but recommendations appreciated.
My amp budget is $500-700, which means I can't quite stretch to the Meier Opera. Also my favourite music styles are IDM (ie electronic), some indie rock/pop. Last.fm profile.
