I've gone through a lot of downsizing over the past few weeks (new place with half of the square footage) and it has completely changed the direction I was heading with my 2 channel system. First off, I lost my listening room. Second, I lost my home theater (no space for it in the new house so I bought a Monitor Audio ASB-2 soundbar which is actually fantastic). Now I'm forced to put all of my attention into my home office rig which is actually quite fun, but I need a bit of help thinking through the next steps I need to make.
First order of business: Front End Since the release of Tidal, it has completely changed the way I listen to music. No more CD's because I'm just streaming now and the quality is great. I have a Squeezebox Touch and I'm running Tidal through a third party app (ickstream). I was running the Squeezbox Touch into my Oppo 105D for conversion via the optical outs, then into my Rogue Audio Perseus Tube Preamp and finally off to my Rogue Audio Stereo 90 Tube Amp. I'm selling the Oppo 105D because I'm literally using only one of it's features in my system, the DAC. I believe I can put that money into a far better DAC. Here's what I need help thinking through.
Is there a better way to run my front end? The Squeezbox Touch is fine but I'm sure there is a better source to run Tidal from, or is there? I'm not using the analog outs on the SBT, just the optical out. Should I focus on a DAC and leave the SBT where it is or should I ditch the SBT for something else that I don't know exists?
I know there are a few aftermarket power supplies available for the SBT but would it help sound quality wise if I'm only using the digital outs? What I am trying to accomplish is better sound from my source. I have $1K to work with. Oh and I should mention that I have both my iMac and Macbook Pro in my office that I can use if that helps with any suggestions.
Second order of business: Back EndI need a new amp or monos. I can't fit the Stereo 90 on the Ikea shelf that my electronics live on now because the Rogue is 60lbs and just completely dominates the shelf. I also need them to be no more than 12.5" wide and 15.5" deep. This eliminates most if not all of the brands I am familiar with. My speakers will be the Philharmonic Audio Slims. Here are some specs:
Cabinet Custom Cabinet
Tweeter RAAL 64-10 OEM
Midrange Tang Band Titanium W4-1337SD
Woofer Seas L16NX 6"
Frequency Response 35Hz - 20kHz (+/- 2db) Anechoic
Sensitivity 85 dB (dB/2.83v/1M)
Box Alignment Folded Mass Loaded Transmission Line
I won't be playing these loud in my small office but I want to make sure there is enough power to control the speakers at lower listening levels. I'd like to go with solid state amps too. My sound preference is always romantic, engaging, and punchy. Again, the biggest thing here is that they fit into my Ikea shelf. I'd love some recommendations! I have about $1K here as well.
Thanks in advanced guys! I already know the room is not ideal but it's what I'm living with now and I'm sure I can get a sound that I'm thrilled with.
