Hello, all. I'm very happy with my mid-level system, but always on the lookout for improvements when they are a) real, and b) reasonably cost-effective.
I currently run a NAD M50.2 as a Roon endpoint, with a coax feed to a Peachtree Nova 125SE integrated amp with built-in DAC, powering CSS Criton 2TD-X speakers (ported, M-T-M layout with high-spec crossover and drivers and very well-braced enclosures) via Canare 4s-11 cables. The speakers sit on sand-filled, spiked Pangea stands, with IsoAcoustics OREA Indigo isolation pucks between the speakers and the stands.
Most of my music library is either sourced from CDs ripped directly into the NAD or downloaded hi-res music files.
So...I've never owned a separate DAC. How would you compare the potential sonic gains from upgrading the DAC from the Peachtree's internal ESS Sabre 24-bit/192kHz upsampling digital-to-analog converter vs alternative approaches?
Thanks!