Simplifying the System

[Puma Cat]

I've made the decision to significantly simplify my system. After over a decade of a using a fairly complex system comprised fully of "separates" and the complex clusterf*ck of optical fiber/Ethernet/USB digital cabling, switches, clocks, and network bridges, power supplies, and the attendant power cables for the power supplies for the networked digital front end, I've decided to simplify and "integrate" my system and move towards "ideality*" as espoused by Geinrich Altschuler*, who developed TRIZ.

With that, I've decided I'm going to sell my CJ LP70S power amp, First Sound Presence Deluxe 4.0 Si-III dual-mono preamp with external dual power supplies, my Lampizator Baltic 3 DAC, all the streaming gear in the main rack, and all the requisite cabling attached thereto.

Not counting the TT & phono pre, as soon as possible, my amplification system is going to be comprised of only two components:

a Lumin P-1 streamer/DAC/preamp...

and a Constellation Inspiration integrated amp...

After fiddling with a complex remote-server streaming system set-up comprised of, in the main rack alone, an EtherREGEN, a SOtM network bridge, an AfterDark Master Clock, each with their requisite Ethernet cables, clock cables, USB cables, ground cables, and power cables for their power supplies, blah, blah, blah, I'm going to simplify and run a single optical fiber cable straight into the back of the Lumin P-1 and connect it via a single pair of ICs to the Constellation Inspiration integrated amp. Job done!

I'll also be able to remove a number of components and cables: 4 power cables, an Ethernet cable, a USB cable, and a clock cable from the main system: 6 fewer devices and 7 fewer cables in the main rack.

For power, from Everest, gonna run a Sigma NRv2 PC to power the Inspiration, and an Omega QR-s PC to power the Lumin P-1.

I'll only need Venom-X ICs from the Lumin P-1 (XLR) and the EAR phono stage (RCA) to the Inspiration integrated amp, and from there, Alpha V2 speaker cables to the 'Beth 30.2s.

I'll be putting up all the other gear (the Lampi DAC, the First Sound preamp, the C-J LP70S amp, etc.) up for sale as soon as I can take and post some product shots, so, if interested, stay tuned for the corresponding ads, the prices will be very favorable for prospective buyers.

Simpler is better. Just as Linn said all those years ago.

Stay tuned and cheers.

*– Ideality as described by Altschuler: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TRIZ

 

[Ron Resnick]

I think that’s great! Way too much succumbing to audiophilia nervous with all that computer stuff!

 

[XV-1]

PC. does it sound better? if so, excellent choice.

time to upgrade your turntable now

 

[stephen_volker]

I often think about trying the X1 instead of my DAC, server setup.

 

[Puma Cat]

I often think about trying the X1 instead of my DAC, server setup.

You should. I am VERY impressed with Lumin's products. Also, how thorougly they think things through.

 

[gleeds]

I am a fan of system simplification. Tom Mallin posted elsewhere his recent acquisition of the Dutch and Dutch system 8 for the same reason.

Full disclosure. I represent a brand of Dutch loudspeakers named AEquo Audio. Their Stilla, pictured below comes in a full active configuration. Add a Lumin X1 DAC/Streamer into the mix, a pair of interconnects and power cords and viola, killer system with few compromises! The total system cost is $40-45k, including cabling.

PS The Stilla's, despite their small size produce sub 20 hertz bass without the use of DSP. Hard to believe but 110% for real.

While I don't expect audiophiles will ditch their separates anytime soon, I view the increasing availability of simplified, high-performance systems as a real plus for the industry.



.

 

[Digital Buddha]

I was thinking the same thing

Aurender n30 > lampi horizon > Audionet humboldt , done

 

[jasond]

I guess no later than 3-5 years most users will switch to a simplified setup.

 

[Republicoftexas69]

I guess no later than 3-5 years most users will switch to a simplified setup.

I did the exact opposite and enjoy my system even more. Been at it 25 years.
The thing is, it is your system and if simplification is the key to musical joy, go for it.
One day I will get there.

 

[Ron Resnick]

I guess no later than 3-5 years most users will switch to a simplified setup.

I like to think that I keep things relatively simple from the get-go by avoiding footers, power conditioners, exotic fuses, exotic AC outlets and wall plates, grounding boxes, additional isolation platforms for component stands shelves, cables that require ground connections, etc.

This comment is in no way intended to criticize or denigrate audiophiles who enjoy experimenting with, and employing, one, or more, or all of these kinds of devices. I very much respect audiophiles who have the patience to experiment with these devices and tweaks, and to figure out what they like and don't like. I just choose, arbitrarily, not to experiment and not to explore these options.

I totally understand how exploring these devices and researching them and making all kinds of sonic comparisons can totally be fun. If a positive consensus develops about a particular tweak I might try it myself. I just personally don't have the patience for the experimentation.

 

[Puma Cat]

I like to think that I keep things relatively simple from the get-go by avoiding footers, power conditioners, exotic fuses, exotic AC outlets and wall plates, grounding boxes, additional isolation platforms for component stands shelves, cables that require ground connections, etc.

This comment is in no way intended to criticize or denigrate audiophiles who enjoy experimenting with, and employing, one, or more, or all of these kinds of devices. I very much respect audiophiles who have the patience to experiment with these devices and tweaks, and to figure out what they like and don't like. I just choose, arbitrarily, not to experiment and not to explore these options.

I totally understand how exploring these devices and researching them and making all kinds of sonic comparisons can totally be fun. If a positive consensus develops about a particular tweak I might try it myself. I just personally don't have the patience for the experimentation.

All I can say is: If you've not yet tried an Altaira...you should.

 

[Ron Resnick]

All I can say is: If you've not yet tried an Altaira...you should.

The Altaira looks interesting. Perhaps you could start a separate thread on it and tell us the sonic improvements it has delivered to you?

 

[Puma Cat]

The Altaira looks interesting. Perhaps you could start a separate thread on it and tell us the sonic improvements it has delivered to you?

Sure...can do, Ron.