Lampizator Golden Gate 2 DAC upgrade?

[V-Fi]

I'm extremely happy with my current system, which is an Auralic Aries G2.2 streamer, Lampizator Golden Gate 2 DAC, Primaluna EVO 300 hybrid integrated, and Dynaudio Confidence 20 speakers. I'm using mostly Veritas Audio cables - their Argentum R RCA, Audax USB, and Aeris power cables, along with Audio Sensibility Signature V2 speaker cables and Shunyata Delta Ethernet (might swap the last parts out for Veritas models soon). I've been running a Bryston BIT-15 but also have a Puritan PSM156 that I am currently trying out, to see if I like it better.

I have been kicking around the idea of upgrading my Golden Gate 2 at some point in the near or far future. But really not sure what direction to go. I really love the sound that it delivers, especially after fine tuning the tube selection. But I can't help but think I could maybe do better. Not sure if that involves a newer Lampi model or something from another brand.

There are many great choices out there but what would folks suggest for keeping a similar sound, just getting more out of it? Or am I barking up the wrong tree and maybe I should look at other components first before changing DACs?

 

[Tuckia]

I had a GG1, GG2 (r2r), GG2 (delta-sigma), Pacific, and Horizon. Seeing what you have, upgrading to a GG3, Pacific, Pacific 2, or even Poseidon would be worthwhile. If you like the Lampi sound, like I do, I only know of one place to get it. Going up from GG2 the resolution improves a bit. There are improvements at every level up. Buy what you can afford. i found my Pacific with DHT tubes to be a good compliment with tube amplification downstream. Others with certain SS amplification thought the Pacific a little dry. I never heard a dry Pacific until I dropped 242 tubes in. PX25 was my sweet spot.

 

[Holli82]

I'm extremely happy with my current system,

Stop! You are in a good place. There is always something bigger, "better" and more expensive. GG 2 is a great DAC.

 

[V-Fi]

Stop! You are in a good place. There is always something bigger, "better" and more expensive. GG 2 is a great DAC.

Thanks, maybe the words of wisdom I need right now. Or at least my bank account does!

I really do love my Lampi though. I guess the thing that makes me wonder is the fact that they have so many newer and "higher" models now. But you're right, it really is a fantastic DAC and I should stick with it.

I've had multiple people tell me that my Primaluna EVO 300 is the weak link in my system. Apparently that brand is not as well respected? I don't go by internet prestige but instead try things and see what sounds best to my ears. And in my own system, after demoing many great contenders, the EVO 300 was by far the best match for me.

In any case I will continue messing with my Bryston power conditioner vs the Puritan I am trying out, and maybe tweak the cables to go with Veritas throughout, but that's about it for now. Thanks for talking me off the ledge.