Advice on separate DAC & preamp versus 'all-in-one' Eversolo DMP A-8

[liviurosioara]

Hi,

Currently I am using an integrated amp (NAD C399, I think based on nCore with ES9028E2Q DAC) + Wiim Pro Plus as a streamer connected on digital input. Also I am connecting the pre-outs front channels of my Denon to the integrated amp. I am thinking about an upgrade of my setup, towards a dedicated stereo amp, probably based on Purifi 1ET400A.

What would be your advice / your choice?

1) Go for the 'all-in-one' Eversolo DMP A-8, which combines streamer, DAC, preamp, so all my current scenarios are covered for around 1800 Euro
2) Go for separate components, for example: Wiim Pro Plus + DAC Topping E70 Pro Sabre + Preamp Topping A70 Pro, also all my current scenarios are covered, perhaps at a lower cost, but what about reliability, quality, sound stage etc. ES9039PRO vs AKM 4399EK, all for approx 1450 Euro
3) Other suggestions?

Your advice is much appreciated!

 

[Dunring]

I've got the E70 9028Pro and A70Pro and it's really amazing. More power than you'll ever need. I've got the D70 Octo also and it sounds exactly the same, just the case matches. If you buy new, use a credit card that doubles the warranty and your set. It's really the end game combo for anyone.

 

[JeremyFife]

Hi,
Quick sense check ... what's wrong with the NAD that makes you want to change? That's a nice amp, and you have a great streamer with the option of PEQ, and Room Correction (also available from your Denon?)
What are you missing ... what problem would you like to fix?
A Purify amp is likely to be quieter - but if you can't hear any obvious noise now then you won't hear any benefit. More power - but do you need that?

If you are looking for a change, have you considered putting the money towards new speakers as that's usually where the improvement will be.
I assume that you are using the DSP/Room Correction options that you have.

What are your speakers, how far from them do you sit and how loud do you listen? Anything else that you think is relevant would help?

(you probably don't need new electronics, although you may want some )

 

[liviurosioara]

(you probably don't need new electronics, although you may want some )

Hi,

That's an absolutely valid point and I had similar thoughts. Normally I am connecting the Wiim via optical cable to the NAD amp. But I tested a DAC (with Wiim as a digital source) connected to the analog in of the NAD (there's an analog bypass so the sound is not digitised by the amp). I got a slightly brighter and cleaner, detailed sound especially mids and highs in this combination. Then I also saw the various class D amps tested by Amir etc. So the idea of upgrading appeared, but perhaps the arguments aren't very strong?

My speakers are some sort of mid-range priced, from a German manufacturer, called Canton Vento 90. I am listening to them in a 25sqm living room, I assume 2.8 meters triangle. Personally I don't quite like room correction, I tried it and I still prefered the EQ-off, room correction off.

 

[mariusp2k]

I have now the A8, a Purifi amp from March Audio and B&W 703 S3, previous setup was Marantz PM6006 + CD6006, wharfedale EVO.
Very happy with the A8 upgrade, as I find it vastly superior to internal DAC of Marantz and clearly better than other DAC/amps I have laying around (Topping DX3, FIIO K7, DAPs with ESS9018 etc). But by far the biggest overall improvement was going with B&W.

 

[Salt]

If You want something new, You won't regret Your choice.
I'm running A6 to a Purify stereo (though wit a RME in between for TT).