Trying to build a great system for less

[stephen_volker]

Hi Guys,

I am looking to build an incredible system, much like I feel mine was, for much less. I plan to buy the Nord amplifiers, still have my Lumin T1 server w/ Lumin L1 NAS, and my Pipedream 18 speakers with a pair of JL F112 subs. I also have a VPI HR-X w/Van den Hul Colibri XGW. I would be happy to find a combination of preamp and phono that would work well with it, preferably on the level of a VAC Signature Mk II. However, I realize digital is getting significantly better and is a lot more convenient so I am giving serious thought to selling my analog rig at least temporarily and possibly even selling the Lumin if I can do better for less. I don't want to spend more than 5 on the pre/phono combination. Seeing as how I do not have the amps yet, I am open to the idea of an integrated for around 7 that will do the job well. I look forward to your guidance! I still have the VAC amps and love how they sound direct from the Lumin but I want to sell the amps and think there is potential for improvement to be made!

Best regards,
Stephen

 

[bonzo75]

Try to get
1. An ASR phono
2. A Music First preamp from the Uk, pretty cheap and giant killer
3. Replace Lumin with a used Lampizator Big 7
4. Add Ultra Shun Mook diamond resonators under one component, source or pre.

I think you are in touch with Marty who owns Pipedreams, he also owns the ASR and the JL Gothams with CR1 crossovers (not sure if you have the CR1)

 

[stephen_volker]

I do not have the CR1. I currently use the Pipedream active crossover. I was considering a Devialet D200, but the more I look the more I am starting to look other directions (as always happens). I keep my subs pretty much right to the corner of my pipedream speakers so the time delay is probably minimal. Eventually I will upgrade to the CR1. I will look into the components you mentioned now! Thanks!

 

[stephen_volker]

I think the goal might have been overlooked. I am looking to make money for a downpayment on a house, not actually upgrade the system. I am aware I will likely be downgrading but I am trying to downgrade as little as possible while still using my Pipedream speakers with the JL Fathoms. I cannot bring myself to selling those.

 

[stephen_volker]

Also, the Lumin is a DAC Server combo. If I were to ditch the server I would need to get a new DAC and server.

 

[bonzo75]

Also, the Lumin is a DAC Server combo. If I were to ditch the server I would need to get a new DAC and server.

Makes sense

 

[Blizzard]

Hi Stephen,

It sounds like what you're looking for is exactly what I'm building right now, minus the phono stage. I know of a few other alternatives that aren't ready for public unveil as well. PM me for details, and we can discuss if this would be a good fit for your needs.

Thanks,
Mike

 

[Rodney Gold]

Devialet will do all you want and more. You dont even have to sell the analog rig , it has a superb phono stage. buy one used.

 

[Blizzard]

Devialet will do all you want and more. You dont even have to sell the analog rig , it has a superb phono stage. buy one used.

Yeah but the phono stage just digitizes the signal. Kind of defeats the purpose of going analog. I would gladly demo my suggestion vs the Devialet. Already have vs the 400, and I'm well aware of the outcome. So are the dealers that were present at the demo.