Amplifiers, streamers and confusion. What to buy for 1000€?

[staticV3]

Since you're suggesting a lot Genelec (some responses before mentioned them too), I think I could really give it a try... the RAW ones look sick too!
I'd prefer a simpler and cleaner way to manage the streamer/DAC than DIY kits

WiiM Pro Plus->Genelec 8030C would be very clean.

Just make sure that you use RCA->XLR cables with this schematic to connect the two, as that will ensure a clean signal:


You can get them from Monoprice for example:

https://www.amazon.com/Monoprice-XLR-Male-RCA-Cable/dp/B001UJH0XU

 

[Alb_listens]

WiiM Pro Plus->Genelec 8030C would be very clean.

Just make sure that you use RCA->XLR cables with this schematic to connect the two, as that will ensure a clean signal:
View attachment 329327 View attachment 329328

You can get them from Monoprice for example:

https://www.amazon.com/Monoprice-XLR-Male-RCA-Cable/dp/B001UJH0XU

Thanks, couldn't just get the G Threes and use normal cables?

 

[staticV3]

Thanks, couldn't just get the G Threes and use normal cables?

Even if you only use regular RCA sources, having an Amp or monitors with XLR input can get rid of noise and interference.

Plus it seems like in Italy, you'd be paying about 160-260€ more for a pair of G Three RAW, than you would for a pair of 8030C RAW.

So I'd definitely get the 8030C.

 

[Alb_listens]

Even if you only use regular RCA sources, having an Amp or monitors with XLR input can get rid of noise and interference.

Plus it seems like in Italy, you'd be paying about 160-260€ more for a pair of G Three RAW, than you would for a pair of 8030C RAW.

So I'd definitely get the 8030C.

Found a last couple of G3's for the same price, I went for the white LED in the end

Got shielded RCA > XLR cables too, now I can't wait
Wiim Pro Plus it was, even though the Eversolo DA-6 was stunning... I had a serious itch for a moment

Thanks everyone, this is a wrap-up. I'll keep you posted.

PS: I got Toole's book too

 

[Alb_listens]

A'ight good people,
I am enjoying SO much my Genelec Threes!

Sound quality is really impressive, they sound a lot "bigger" than they are.
Thank you everyone for the help, I can now enjoy music even at lower volume.

I believe I will upgrade with their sub to get the full range experience

 

[nab1828]

WiiM Pro Plus->Genelec 8030C would be very clean.

Just make sure that you use RCA->XLR cables with this schematic to connect the two, as that will ensure a clean signal:
View attachment 329327 View attachment 329328

You can get them from Monoprice for example:

https://www.amazon.com/Monoprice-XLR-Male-RCA-Cable/dp/B001UJH0XU

I have the same exact setup but had already purchased cables before figuring this out. Would these do?

Cable Matters Dual RCA to XLR Unbalanced Interconnect Cable 6 ft, 2 RCA to XLR Male Cable (Dual XLR to RCA Cable) - 6 Feet https://a.co/d/ghU1CBp

I don't see the third connection in the diagram.

Also, how would I connect the Wiim Pro Plus to a sub (7040 or 7050) in the future?

If there's a guide to sub integration and room correction with REW that would also be appreciated, as I'm a newbie. Thanks!

 

[staticV3]

have the same exact setup but had already purchased cables before figuring this out. Would these do?

Cable Matters Dual RCA to XLR Unbalanced Interconnect Cable 6 ft, 2 RCA to XLR Male Cable (Dual XLR to RCA Cable) - 6 Feet https://a.co/d/ghU1CBp

2 conductor cables like the one you linked will negate the 8030C's XLR Line in's ability to reject common mode noise, which can result in annoying mains hum or other noise.

If there's no added noise with those cables, then I don't see a reason not to use them.

If there is noise, then you may be able to get rid of it by replacing them.

Also, how would I connect the Wiim Pro Plus to a sub (7040 or 7050) in the future?

WiiM->RCA to XLR Cable->7040->XLR Cable->8030

 

[nab1828]

2 conductor cables like the one you linked will negate the 8030C's XLR Line in's ability to reject common mode noise, which can result in annoying mains hum or other noise.

If there's no added noise with those cables, then I don't see a reason not to use them.

If there is noise, then you may be able to get rid of it by replacing them.


WiiM->RCA to XLR Cable->7040->XLR Cable->8030

Thanks, I'll try it out. What do I need to do to EQ the setup for my room and integrate the sub properly? Do you think the 7040a will be good enough for nearfield listening?

 

[nab1828]

2 conductor cables like the one you linked will negate the 8030C's XLR Line in's ability to reject common mode noise, which can result in annoying mains hum or other noise.

If there's no added noise with those cables, then I don't see a reason not to use them.

If there is noise, then you may be able to get rid of it by replacing them.


WiiM->RCA to XLR Cable->7040->XLR Cable->8030

I got a deal on the F one sub, which should be the consumer version of the 7040a if I'm not mistaken. I presume I can connect this with an RCA to XLR to the 8030s and use it like a 7040a?

 

[staticV3]

I got a deal on the F one sub, which should be the consumer version of the 7040a if I'm not mistaken.

Not quite.
The F One has a less powerful Amp inside, doesn't play as deep as the 8040, and has more self-noise.

I presume I can connect this with an RCA to XLR to the 8030s and use it like a 7040a?

That should work.

However, if you get a ground loop between the WiiM and F One resulting in mains hum, then there's no elegant way to get rid of it.

With the 8040, the differential XLR Line in would cancel out any noise or mains hum, provided you use the right cables.

With the F One's RCA in, the only solution would be an RCA isolation transformer, which usually have their own issues like bass roll-off and increased distortion.

 

[nab1828]

Not quite.
The F One has a less powerful Amp inside, doesn't play as deep as the 8040, and has more self-noise.


That should work.

However, if you get a ground loop between the WiiM and F One resulting in mains hum, then there's no elegant way to get rid of it.

With the 8040, the differential XLR Line in would cancel out any noise or mains hum, provided you use the right cables.

With the F One's RCA in, the only solution would be an RCA isolation transformer, which usually have their own issues like bass roll-off and increased distortion.

Genelec told me to connect the Wiim digitally to the sub, then the RCA to XLR cables you mentioned earlier. Although I can't find the Monoprice ones in Europe.

 

[staticV3]

Genelec told me to connect the Wiim digitally to the sub

Oh yeah, that'd totally work!
I just assumed that the F One only had RCA connectivity just like the G One, my bad.

Definitely go with Toslink then.