Seeking Digital Options For My Powered Speakers

[LarsT]

I purchased a pair of Elac Navis ARB-51 powered speakers earlier this year for my bedroom. I wasn’t expecting a lot in terms of sound quality, but I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoy listening to them. But I made a mistake (one of many) in downsizing too far so now I’m looking for a source and preamp for these analog powered speakers. I’m not looking to break the bank....maybe $3K total. I need. Source and volume control. Any and all suggestions would be welcomed. A Roon endpoint would be ideal. I have thought about a used McIntosh D150 with a Lumin U1 Mini, Pure Audio Lotus Dac5, and Mytek Brooklyn Bridge. I am currently using a Bluesound Node 2i and the volume control in Roon. It’s just not quite doing it for me.

[W9TR]

Lars a if you like the sound of ESS D/A converters then the Mytec Brooklyn and Benchmark DAC3 HGC would be good choices. You would enough left over to get a Roon endpoint.

Another interesting possibility would be to get a Schiit Yggdrasil and Freya combo. I own a Yggdrasil and can say for sure it is an outstanding DAC. While I haven’t heard the Freya I think it would make a good companion piece.

Tom

[LarsT]

Yes, The Yggy has intrigued me for some time now. But Schiit would involve me getting three pieces. I’m looking for 2 maximum. Right now the Mytek Brooklyn Bridge is in the lead. It’s an all in one.

[nicoff]

Since "any and all suggestions are welcome", I read recently about a new one-box B&W active speaker with built-in amp, BT, Roon, and Air Play capability. Just for streaming. I know that this is different than what you were asking about, but it might be worth considering. Of course this would replace your active speakers, but you will save money as well.

[rnrmf1971]

If you decide to get a dac, first, I think the Bluesound Node sounds better through the coax digital out along with a $200 Audioquest NRG-Z2 vs the Bluesound analog output.

[LarsT]

Originally Posted by nicoff

Since "any and all suggestions are welcome", I read recently about a new one-box B&W active speaker with built-in amp, BT, Roon, and Air Play capability. Just for streaming. I know that this is different than what you were asking about, but it might be worth considering. Of course this would replace your active speakers, but you will save money as well.

Yes, I did say any and all. I will take a look at that. I am a fan of B&W.

[LarsT]

Originally Posted by rnrmf1971

If you decide to get a dac, first, I think the Bluesound Node sounds better through the coax digital out along with a $200 Audioquest NRG-Z2 vs the Bluesound analog output.

Thanks! I was definitely thinking of upgrading the power cord in the Node, regardless of where I use it. And I could go from the Node into a DAC with volume control.

[Higgens]

Lars - have you considered the new Aurender A100?

[LarsT]

Originally Posted by Higgens

Lars - have you considered the new Aurender A100?

I guess I should. I actually forgot about this recent addition to the line up. I would get one in a heartbeat if it were Roon Ready. I will look at closely though. Thanks

[Higgens]

At present, the only way to control Aurender via Roon is through Airplay.