My current system comprises of a SBT, Croft 25, M-DAC and Event Opals. In contrast to experience with my former passive set up I have found removing the pre-amp from the chain has little in the way of adverse effect and probably brings the recording a little closer, it sounds a little different in and out but not majorly so. (In my passive set up adding the Croft have a profound positive impact).
So I am currently using the M-DAC direct to the Opals, it isn't bad at all but I can't help think how much improvement could be yield from an upgrade in DAC / Pre?
I've considered the likes of the Benchmark DAC2, Nad M51 in the past (went with the MDAC as it was more budget option to tide me over) but while I'd imagine these will be an improvement would it be obvious and clear? I want something that will be a clear upgrade in this dual function but if it is only subtle would rather wait till I can afford an upgrade which will really tell.
What kind of gear would I be looking at for the Mrs to notice an improvement in sound? I can't really see me spending north of £2k at this stage of life on tech which dates such as DACs, are there any new DAC with quality pre function on the horizon? The whole DAC pre seems to be the obvious expanding market and I want something that is very much aimed to excel in both functions rather than being one or the other with added function as an after thought.
Cheers for any suggestions.
So I am currently using the M-DAC direct to the Opals, it isn't bad at all but I can't help think how much improvement could be yield from an upgrade in DAC / Pre?
I've considered the likes of the Benchmark DAC2, Nad M51 in the past (went with the MDAC as it was more budget option to tide me over) but while I'd imagine these will be an improvement would it be obvious and clear? I want something that will be a clear upgrade in this dual function but if it is only subtle would rather wait till I can afford an upgrade which will really tell.
What kind of gear would I be looking at for the Mrs to notice an improvement in sound? I can't really see me spending north of £2k at this stage of life on tech which dates such as DACs, are there any new DAC with quality pre function on the horizon? The whole DAC pre seems to be the obvious expanding market and I want something that is very much aimed to excel in both functions rather than being one or the other with added function as an after thought.
Cheers for any suggestions.