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Advice from members

I have just started putting my first system together and have been enjoying it for about 6 months or so and am starting to research what I should upgrade in the current system next. I am looking to improve both clarity and soundstage. This is what I am currently running, the biggest and most noticable difference to date has come with the introduction of room correction via the Dspeaker Dual Core. Here is the current setup. I am debating on simplifying by going to a all in one solution like a Anthem STR integrated OR introducing a higher quality DAC into the current system:
  • Source: Innuos Music Server (MINI MK2) running Roon server and being used as a player
  • DAC/Preamp/Room Correction - Antimode Dual Core. - To leverage the best input on the dual core I am using a Musical Fidelity VLINK USB to SPDIF (24/96) converter
  • AMP - Using a Jolida 1501P Hybrid AMP
  • Speakers - ELAC Unifi UF5 Floor Standing with a ORB Audio 200 watt Sub that is corrected via the Dual Core.
I am wondering what the weakest link the chain is and the one I should look at upgrading next.
Many thanks in advance, looking forward to everyones feedback.
palakapatel
willemj
1,036 posts
 
I don’t understand why you decided to cover the usb output from the streamer to optical, when the Dual Core has a usb input. I would get rid of it, and just connect via usb. USB is a very good digital connection, and measurably better than optical (and don't waste money on the scam of fancy digital interconnects). Did you ask DSpeaker in Finland? You can just give them a call and you get to talk to one of the engineers.
Personally I am not a fan of tube amplifiers, but the biggest sound quality improvement usually comes from better speakers. In your case, that is where I would go first, apart from selling that usb to optical converter.
willemj
1,036 posts
 
Sorry I cannot correct the typo anymore: 'convert' rather than 'cover'.
palakapatel OP
7 posts
 
Willemj - Thanks for the response.  The reason I am using the SPDIF (optical) over the usb is because the USB on the dspeaker is limited 24/48 where as the SPDIF goes upto 24/96.  The US distributor has also suggested that the best sounding and performing input is indeed the SPDIF, something I was able to confirm after a series of A/B tests.  
randy-11
1,913 posts
 
you are also getting galvanic isolation with the converter

where are you on room treatments?

same question re source material and the best recordings/masterings?

it won't be easy to make significant improvements, as you have already skimmed most of the cream...
jafant's avatar
jafant
10,525 posts
 
Welcome! palakapatel
congratulations on your 1st system. We all were there once upon a time.
I, too, am considering an integrated amp, possibly, the new Anthem.
Keep us posted as you obtain your bearing and audition more gear.
Have fun.
Happy Listening!
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