Welcome to the Doorway. But the doorway to what?

[Admin]

We get it. Audio can be an intimidating place. And audio forums can be even worse. Audio forums have been characterized by some as "nerds fighting". But it doesn't have to be. So come on in and ask whatever questions you want to ask. And we won't bite. And we won't even mock you for asking them. We're just here to help you on your journey, regardless of what the destination might be.

 

[Onslow]

Well, you have me at kind of an advantage because I don't even have an audio system anymore!

Well, except for my Victrola XI. Wonder if I can tweak that up a little?

I imagine I've a journey ahead of me. I've been down every road there is, I just have to remember what my favorite was

 

[prime minister]

Just a matter of sorting out what you want, Onslow. Give us your thoughts, and we'll point you in the right direction.

 

[Onslow]

Oh, don't have a bloody clue at the moment! Maybe I'll get some ideas just hangin' round. There's not too many systems I haven't had in the past. Unfortunately money's tight at the moment so I'll just wait till something pops up that grabs me and start from there

 

[JohnVF]

I recommend a simple setup using a DAC/pre and active monitors with either a computer as source or old CD player as transport....

 

[prime minister]

Agreed. This really is the way to go, unless you are driven by a need for gear, or a love of things vintage.

 

[Ernie]

I heard just such a system with an iFi nano and was impressed by its versatility as well as value. To be honest, I cannot remember the speakers in use. Several different file types up to some HiRes files. Astounding sound quality. That would be where I would start, also. Under $300 for the nano iDSD.

 

[billfort]

Yeah, if I was starting again with a clean-slate and assuming I had a decent laptop or PC, I'd start with a $200 iDSD Nano and build around it. Sending DSD128 to these new DACs is spectacularly good, especially if using HQPlayer software for the upscaling on the fly. The biggest audio 'shocker' for me over the last few years has been good redbook...played as DSD128.

 

[Shelby1420]

I recommend a simple setup using a DAC/pre and active monitors with either a computer as source or old CD player as transport....

Use this very set up, upstairs and love it!!! Sounds great and soon easy to use!!!

 

[MikeT.]

Now THIS is NICE!!!! If this isn't doorway, I'm not sure what is.

Sprout100 Integrated Amplifier

 

[1koolcat]

Thanks, MikeT. for that info on the "SPROUT". That might be an elegant solution for my sister's small apartment stereo needs.