Hi all,
I am building a Desk-Fi music system.
Think of 3 totally different combinations, which cost closely (~$1000)
Please rate for them and advice.
Audio Source: iPad Mini 7 + Wiim Ultra (USB Out)
1. Setup inspired by cheapaudioman, seems to have a very high price–performance ratio
DAC Pre: SMSL DL400 $500
Power Amp: Fosi Audio V3 Mono $280
Speakers: Emotiva Airmotiv XB1 $370
Price: $1150
fosiaudio.com
emotiva.com
2. This setup combines cool tech from Schiit and IK Multimeida. I am interested how they will sound.
DAC Pre: Schiit Jotunheim True Multibit Unison DAC $600
Speakers: IK Multimedia iLoud Micro Monitor Pro (2024) $560
Price: $1160
www.schiit.com
www.ikmultimedia.com
3. R2R DAC + Tube Pre Setup, which I am totally unfamiliar with and want to experience
DAC: Fiio K11 R2R $160
Preamp: Bellari Audio PA555 $200
Speakers: Tannoy Gold 5 $500
Price: $860
www.fiio.com
www.tannoy.com
I am building a Desk-Fi music system.
Think of 3 totally different combinations, which cost closely (~$1000)
Please rate for them and advice.
Audio Source: iPad Mini 7 + Wiim Ultra (USB Out)
1. Setup inspired by cheapaudioman, seems to have a very high price–performance ratio
DAC Pre: SMSL DL400 $500
Power Amp: Fosi Audio V3 Mono $280
Speakers: Emotiva Airmotiv XB1 $370
Price: $1150

Fosi Audio V3 Mono Power Amplifier
Crafted for HiFi audiophiles, the V3 Mono allows you to drive a single passive speaker with one amp, delivering up to 240W @4Ω of rated power.


Airmotiv XB1 Bookshelf Loudspeakers (Pair)
The Airmotiv XB1 Compact Bookshelf Speaker is a versatile two-way speaker, ideal for shelf or stand placement, as well as near-field listening on a desk or mixing console, delivering exceptional sound quality in any setup.

2. This setup combines cool tech from Schiit and IK Multimeida. I am interested how they will sound.
DAC Pre: Schiit Jotunheim True Multibit Unison DAC $600
Speakers: IK Multimedia iLoud Micro Monitor Pro (2024) $560
Price: $1160
Schiit Audio: Audio Products Made in USA
iLoud Micro Monitor Pro
iLoud Micro Monitor Pro portable studio monitors by IK Multimedia with built-in ARC correction, X-Monitor integration, and more make critical mixing possible in the studio, at home or on the go.

3. R2R DAC + Tube Pre Setup, which I am totally unfamiliar with and want to experience
DAC: Fiio K11 R2R $160
Preamp: Bellari Audio PA555 $200
Speakers: Tannoy Gold 5 $500
Price: $860
Desktop DAC and Headphone Amplifier-K11 R2R
Guangzhou FiiO Electronics Technology Co., Ltd.


PA555 - Preamplifier - Bellari Audio
How many times have we all heard the left-handed compliment about an audio component when someone says it sounds “really good for the money?” The inference is that even though it sounds really good, it doesn’t sound all that good because it just doesn’t cost as much as the high-priced spread...
www.bellariaudio.com
Tannoy | Product | GOLD 5
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