Reducing Number of Electronic Devices

[Ron Texas]

Thank you for confirming. The net cost would be lower since I could sell three components (preamp, phono preamp, and DAC) to help pay for it.
Any objective reviews on the M66?

Sorry, you will have to search for reviews.

Here's my take on the MiniDSP SHD: You might not need a preamp, but you have to check the specs for its output and the Benchmark's input. It probably doesn't use enough power to make not having a 12V trigger a concern. After all, it might cost you a $1 per month.

 

[Timcognito]

C 658 - NAD Electronics

The NAD C 658 is a new kind of stereo component, one that at once changes preconceptions and opens new possibilities for audio reproduction. You see, there has never before been a component offering such a rich palette of both new and proven technology.

nadelectronics.com

Budget M66

 

[Nicoff]

Sorry, you will have to search for reviews.

Here's my take on the MiniDSP SHD: You might not need a preamp, but you have to check the specs for its output and the Benchmark's input. It probably doesn't use enough power to make not having a 12V trigger a concern. After all, it might cost you a $1 per month.

Thank you Ron! Much appreciated!

 

[Nicoff]

After doing some research, it looks like my Phono preamp needs to stay. So I have three components suitable for replacement: The RPi streamer, the Topping Pre90 preamp, and the T+A DAC 8 DSD.
The Eversolo A8 could replace all three devices.
Another option (a bit more money) is to use the Eversolo A6 as a streamer and replace my T+A Dadc with the Benchmark DAC3 (which blends well with my Benchmark amps).
I had never heard of Eversolo and not sure about reliability . Any thoughts?
Am I missing something?
Thanks!!

 

[Purité Audio]

Failure rates for Eversolo ( purely my experience ) has been extremely low, one A-6 refused to start and that was replaced immediately by manufacturer, my only other ( far eastern manufacturer) was far worse.
Even RME fails occasionally, what is important of course is positive remedial action by the manufacturer.
The A-8 has a completely analogue pathway but no RIAA so you would still need a phono stage.
Keith

 

[Nicoff]

Failure rates for Eversolo ( purely my experience ) has been extremely low, one A-6 refused to start and that was replaced immediately by manufacturer, my only other ( far eastern manufacturer) was far worse.
Even RME fails occasionally, what is important of course is positive remedial action by the manufacturer.
The A-8 has a completely analogue pathway but no RIAA so you would still need a phono stage.
Keith

Thanks! It looks like the Eversolo does not have a line level output. Having two volumes in the path could be an issue...hmmm

 

[Fred H]

I tried this approach with my Flex Digital, but it didn't draw enough current to turn the amp on. So I use a remote control outlet to do so.

After a mention in another thread (which I can't find now) I tried a Bits Limited LCG-3MVR Energy Saving Surge Protector with Autoswitching Technology. With the sensitivity set on max, it switches when my Flex Digital is switched in and out of standby. So I've retired my remote control outlet. It's really a minor improvement, but it feels like much more to me.

 

[Nicoff]

Thanks to everyone for your suggestions.
I kept the analog system and replaced three digital components with the following two devices:

• WiiM Pro (streamer)
• Benchmark DAC3 (DAC/Pre)

The WiiM Pro replaced my RPi streamer. This device is great. It has a great GUI, many more features (including parametric EQ), Roon end-point, etc. I don’t know why anyone needs to spend more money for a streamer. Highly recommended.
The DAC3 integrates perfectly with my Benchmark amps. Highly recommended as well.