Parker (beanboy's) New Mcintosh & Aerial 7T system

[beanboy]

So what's better about the dedicated 2 channel amps? So they use a different (better) DAC? Or...?

Parker

[Masterlu]

Originally Posted by beanboy

So what's better about the dedicated 2 channel amps? So they use a different (better) DAC? Or...?

Parker

He is referring to higher end dedicated 2-Channel pre-amps. Just remember; everything sounds good, until you campare it to something better.

[beanboy]

But specifically, why do they sound better?

I guess I just don't understand what could make them so superior....it seems like the DAC within the units would be the primary variable?

[Masterlu]

Originally Posted by beanboy

But specifically, why do they sound better?

I guess I just don't understand what could make them so superior....it seems like the DAC within the units would be the primary variable?

They are designed differently; utilizing more expensive higher performance components, some incorporate tubes as well. Usually have improved, and or isolated power supplies etc.

[Volks]

Very nice system!

[enit]

Originally Posted by beanboy

But specifically, why do they sound better?

I guess I just don't understand what could make them so superior....it seems like the DAC within the units would be the primary variable?

The DAC is indeed a variable. But you absolutely need the DSP chip in your Mx121 to decode multi-channel audio- but it's only a "small" part maybe 15-20% of the way it sounds. It's more in the specifications that allow the dacs to do what it does, . Mx121 is a good choice. Its one of the more versatile all-in-one components in the mcintosh line up, and is good to go for 2-channel.

The other variables as what Ivan has mentioned is the separate power supply that makes a Pre-amp quieter, a fully analog circuitry vs an analog to digital to analog because of the processes.

I personally don't fancy the Audyssey, as this technology changes the curve of every system it is implemented with. I would rather use the manual EQ, with my measurement mic, to get a more accurate to the room sound, vs the Audyssey Pre-set curve.

Congrats on your new system! Enjoy!!

Sent from my iPhone using A.Aficionado

[paul1]

Very nice bean boy

Enjoy what you have until you hear better.

[trek737]

Congrats! Nice choice with the Aerial and Mac combo...

[-E-]

Originally Posted by beanboy

A HUGE shoutout goes to Ivan @ Legend A/V. He has fielded numerous phone calls and got me the Aerials and WW cables. Couldn't have done it without Ivan. He helped steer me away from potential pitfalls and actually ended up saving me a lot of money in the long run. Thanks Ivan!

I'm not surprised. This is normal. Just not what people are used to.

Originally Posted by beanboy

System specs:
MX121
2x MC601s
Aerial 7Ts in Rose Walnut
WireWorld Silver Eclipse 7 speaker wire
WireWorld Silver Eclipse 6 interconnects

A superb start.

Originally Posted by beanboy

To come:
Power conditioner (trying to decide between the MC1500 or a Bryston BIT15)
Wyred 4 sound DAC
Aerial SW12 subwoofer
Oppo 105 BD player

Recommendations:
I'd take a RGPC unit over either of those two power conditioners.
I'd take a Schiit DAC over the W4S any day, or go higher end.
Consider JL for your sub.
Consider something for ripping and playing back your media to avoid spinning discs completely.

Originally Posted by beanboy

My room is pretty small (15 x 12 ft). Right now it has no sound deadening, but I'm thinking of adding a rug--and possibly some acoustic panels.

My main question to all you audio geniuses out there is:

How do you go about setting up the speakers in the room? I've included a couple of pics to give you an idea of the room shape. Should I just find someone in my area (Dallas) who knows what they are doing and have them do it? Or is it something I can do myself?

Thanks!
Parker

So far so good, Parker. To start, I'd widen the 7T's a bit more if I could - it would open up your soundstage nicely.

Are you planning to go multichannel or stick strictly 2-channel?

[beanboy]

Planning to do multichannel eventually (which is why I got the 121).

For now I'm just going to enjoy 2 channel.

Why do ou say get an rgpc unit?

And what 'higher end' days are you referring to?

Thanks,
Parker