Cante Ista
500+ Head-Fier
- Joined
- Apr 15, 2012
- Posts
- 852
- Likes
- 20
Hi All,
I have the upgraditis itch again but can't make up my mind which way I should go. I am considering two very different directions and I was hoping that I could get some feedback from you all that would help me with the decision.
Option 1: Upgrade my digital front end
System:
I am currently running MacMini with Amarra 2.5.1 to the PWD MK2 via Wireworld Starlight USB to the First Watt F3 to drive the HD800 or HE6 (GSX mk2 will soon be joining this group as well, to use with HD800). In order to improve my front section, I am thinking of installing a solid state hard drive on the Mac and add on off board USB converter like the OffRamp 5 or the one from Berkley.
Goal:
What I wonna get from this upgrade is better imaging, separation, sound stage depth and width and detail. Overall, these are the attributes that I enjoy the most in my music. I am an OCD analytical listener.
Questions:
What I was hoping someone can comment on is how much of an improvement I would get from this upgrade?
Also, would installing an SS hard drive reduce benefits of external USB converter? I mean, does the SS HD improve provide benefits that make the USB converter less "necessary"?
Option 2: Get the DNA Stratus
System:
If I go this route, I would basically add the Stratus to my main system.
Goal;
The goal here is to get some variety in my system. When the GSX arrives I will have 2 excellent solid state amps, for each of my main headphones. Adding the Stratus would give me an option, when i am in the mood, to listen to a more musical presentation characteristic of tubes. While I already have the DNA Sonett (which I also love), I am looking for something that would give me a smoother tube sound without loss of detail.
Question:
My decision here will be largely driven by answers questions on Option 1. I am basically wondering whether spending money on something like Off Ramp to feed my PWD will actually improve my system that much.
I know this is a very subjective question, so I expect subjective answers. What would you do, if you were me and why? ALso, if you have experience with digital section upgrades, please share your impressions of what worked and what did not?
Thank you all for your impressions and advice.
I have the upgraditis itch again but can't make up my mind which way I should go. I am considering two very different directions and I was hoping that I could get some feedback from you all that would help me with the decision.
Option 1: Upgrade my digital front end
System:
I am currently running MacMini with Amarra 2.5.1 to the PWD MK2 via Wireworld Starlight USB to the First Watt F3 to drive the HD800 or HE6 (GSX mk2 will soon be joining this group as well, to use with HD800). In order to improve my front section, I am thinking of installing a solid state hard drive on the Mac and add on off board USB converter like the OffRamp 5 or the one from Berkley.
Goal:
What I wonna get from this upgrade is better imaging, separation, sound stage depth and width and detail. Overall, these are the attributes that I enjoy the most in my music. I am an OCD analytical listener.
Questions:
What I was hoping someone can comment on is how much of an improvement I would get from this upgrade?
Also, would installing an SS hard drive reduce benefits of external USB converter? I mean, does the SS HD improve provide benefits that make the USB converter less "necessary"?
Option 2: Get the DNA Stratus
System:
If I go this route, I would basically add the Stratus to my main system.
Goal;
The goal here is to get some variety in my system. When the GSX arrives I will have 2 excellent solid state amps, for each of my main headphones. Adding the Stratus would give me an option, when i am in the mood, to listen to a more musical presentation characteristic of tubes. While I already have the DNA Sonett (which I also love), I am looking for something that would give me a smoother tube sound without loss of detail.
Question:
My decision here will be largely driven by answers questions on Option 1. I am basically wondering whether spending money on something like Off Ramp to feed my PWD will actually improve my system that much.
I know this is a very subjective question, so I expect subjective answers. What would you do, if you were me and why? ALso, if you have experience with digital section upgrades, please share your impressions of what worked and what did not?
Thank you all for your impressions and advice.
