New here! Favorite rig set up for NX Studio/NX Oticas?

Tyson · « **Reply #40 on:** 27 Nov 2021, 05:26 pm »

Go for the Kismet (2nd pair). Those are incredibly good. You will definitely hear a difference.

nadirmg · « **Reply #41 on:** 28 Nov 2021, 04:07 pm »

Thanks for the feedback guys!

I was able to get the Kismit pair and he's shipping them through FedEx today. Sweet!

Klaus confirmed ownership as well as the upgrades the seller described. He's a hell of a guy (he called me back on Saturday of Thanksgiving weekend and we chatted for about 10min). The rave reviews I've read about Klaus' customer service, is 100% TRUE. If anyone is thinking about doing business with him, I highly recommend!

For synergy, I'm considering going with Klaus' Candela vacuum tube Pre. I'd love to have a tube preamp and I don't think I can go wrong with the Candela/Kismit duo. Bonus - the Candela has a remote control option.

Next I just need to decide 1) which DAC to go with and 2) how I'm going to receive my data signal to send through the DAC. More research!

Oh ...and I gotta build those NX Studios too once the kit and flatpacks arrive

Tyson · « **Reply #42 on:** 28 Nov 2021, 04:18 pm »

Musical Paradise MP-D2 is a giant killer DAC.

nadirmg · « **Reply #43 on:** 28 Nov 2021, 04:27 pm »

Quote from: Tyson on 28 Nov 2021, 04:18 pm

Musical Paradise MP-D2 is a giant killer DAC.

Thanks Tyson, I was actually just looking at this since a number of the guys here have given me thumbs up on it. But all of the upgrade options that come with it (if I buy new) confuse me since I have no idea what they do.

I'm definitely willing to learn as I go (I want to avoid analysis paralysis) but I also don't want to pass up no-brainer upgrades that would make an immediate, big difference.

Thoughts?

Tyson · « **Reply #44 on:** 28 Nov 2021, 04:37 pm »

For output tubes, the Russian 6N1P's are excellent, as is the the Shuguang 6z5p. For the DAC module, the AKM is not available anymore (the factory burned down) so the ESS is the only way to go there. For output caps definiltey get the 2x Vcap ODAM for $224, it makes a big difference. And last but not least you do want to get the Femto Clock upgrade for $125.

I've heard a bunch of DACs and this is the only one I've heard that really competes with DACs in the $3k-$5k range. I had a friend measure it and it measures extremely well, too.

nadirmg · « **Reply #45 on:** 28 Nov 2021, 04:45 pm »

Quote from: Tyson on 28 Nov 2021, 04:37 pm

For output tubes, the Russian 6N1P's are excellent, as is the the Shuguang 6z5p. For the DAC module, the AKM is not available anymore (the factory burned down) so the ESS is the only way to go there. For output caps definiltey get the 2x Vcap ODAM for $224, it makes a big difference. And last but not least you do want to get the Femto Clock upgrade for $125.

I've heard a bunch of DACs and this is the only one I've heard that really competes with DACs in the $3k-$5k range. I had a friend measure it and it measures extremely well, too.

Thanks, Tyson!

nadirmg · « **Reply #46 on:** 3 Dec 2021, 04:24 am »

Quote from: corndog71 on 26 Nov 2021, 07:17 pm

If the DAC you choose has a volume control then you can probably get away without a preamp for a simple 2 channel system.

But if you want to add subs you will likely need one. Sure, technically you could split the output of the dac 4 ways (yes, 2 per channel). But most dacs have a fixed output voltage and are not really designed for driving multiple amplifiers.

It may seem redundant but a preamp does a lot more than just provide source selection and volume control. It adds an amplification (or gain) stage between the source and amplifier. It can more easily drive multiple amplifiers with long cable runs if necessary. Ideally you want a preamp with 2 pairs of outputs. Or one with a regular output and another output for the subs.

It’s about controlling the signal and maintaining signal integrity.

Hi Corndog

Question about outputs: what am I looking for when shopping around for preamps with 2 pairs of outputs? Will one pair be listed as "amps" and the other as "subs"? A preamp is one of the last two pieces I need to buy. I'm thinking of going with a Candela.

JackD · « **Reply #47 on:** 3 Dec 2021, 04:38 am »

Not normally and with most manufacturers they are the same. Depending on how long Klaus' current lead time is you might want to look at one of the Van Alstine Fet Valve preamps in the same price range.

nadirmg · « **Reply #48 on:** 3 Dec 2021, 04:39 am »

Quote from: JackD on 27 Nov 2021, 04:52 am

Their are a three year old used pair on US Audiomart for $2000 that are a safer bet. They are in Milwaukee

THANK YOU for the tip on this. I ordered them and they arrived today

JackD · « **Reply #49 on:** 3 Dec 2021, 05:14 am »

Advantage of buying that way is not having to go through the long break-in on Odyssey amps especially those with the 'big caps." A couple of days on 24/7 and they should be good to go sound wise. Good tube preamp and you will be set. Always tube preamps with all four of my Odyssey amps over the years. If you can find a used Modwright preamp they are also a good match. I used the LS-100 with Kismet for several years.

nadirmg · « **Reply #50 on:** 9 Dec 2021, 06:51 pm »

Quote from: Tyson on 28 Nov 2021, 04:37 pm

For output tubes, the Russian 6N1P's are excellent, as is the the Shuguang 6z5p. For the DAC module, the AKM is not available anymore (the factory burned down) so the ESS is the only way to go there. For output caps definiltey get the 2x Vcap ODAM for $224, it makes a big difference. And last but not least you do want to get the Femto Clock upgrade for $125.

I've heard a bunch of DACs and this is the only one I've heard that really competes with DACs in the $3k-$5k range. I had a friend measure it and it measures extremely well, too.

Hi Tyson, I'm likely going to buy this and bunch up all the available upgrades. For now I'm thinking I'll hold off on getting a preamp and just focus on getting my speakers put together and just getting used to all these moving pieces.

Will this DAC be able to connect to both my Odyssey Kismits to drive both my NX Studios or will I need a preamp after the DAC?

Tyson · « **Reply #51 on:** 9 Dec 2021, 07:12 pm »

Quote from: nadirmg on 9 Dec 2021, 06:51 pm

Hi Tyson, I'm likely going to buy this and bunch up all the available upgrades. For now I'm thinking I'll hold off on getting a preamp and just focus on getting my speakers put together and just getting used to all these moving pieces.

Will this DAC be able to connect to both my Odyssey Kismits to drive both my NX Studios or will I need a preamp after the DAC?

It will do an excellent job driving the amps directly. In fact it'll do a better job than most other DACs because of it's overbuilt power supply.

nadirmg · « **Reply #52 on:** 9 Dec 2021, 08:02 pm »

Quote from: Tyson on 9 Dec 2021, 07:12 pm

It will do an excellent job driving the amps directly. In fact it'll do a better job than most other DACs because of it's overbuilt power supply.

Awesome! Thanks!

nadirmg · « **Reply #53 on:** 9 Dec 2021, 08:54 pm »

Well guys, my NX Studios flatpacks arrived yesterday and I think my speaker kits will be shipping before the end of the week. It's just about time to build. Odyssey amps are here too.

Still on my to do list:
- order an MP-D2 MK3 DAC
- build the NS studio speakers - I need to figure out how I'll finish them (paint vs veneer)
- figure out my music streaming service (probably Roon)
- figure out my streaming setup (Roon server vs Mac laptop etc vs other methods) - this is actually really confusing for me
- figure out cords for connecting all my components (I'm keeping it basic for now)
- sound treat/prep the room I'll be using once it's time to listen

Am I missing anything else?

PUMPED to make this my project over the holidays!

NoahH · « **Reply #54 on:** 9 Dec 2021, 10:49 pm »

Roon is not actually a streaming service so you need something in addition. I suggest Qobuz for both sound quality and artist payouts.

Jaytor · « **Reply #55 on:** 9 Dec 2021, 11:19 pm »

While I'm a big fan of Roon (and have a lifetime membership), it might simpler to start out with a BlueSound Node (there are a few iterations) and get a Qobuz or Tidal subscription. Connected to your DAC using SPDIF, this makes an excellent low cost streamer with easy to use software.

These are available on the used market for around $350, and you'll have to spend considerably more to get a lot better performance. When you are ready to upgrade to Roon, the Node (or Node2, or Node2i) makes a a great Roon endpoint.

nadirmg · « **Reply #56 on:** 9 Dec 2021, 11:57 pm »

Quote from: Jaytor on 9 Dec 2021, 11:19 pm

While I'm a big fan of Roon (and have a lifetime membership), it might simpler to start out with a BlueSound Node (there are a few iterations) and get a Qobuz or Tidal subscription. Connected to your DAC using SPDIF, this makes an excellent low cost streamer with easy to use software.

These are available on the used market for around $350, and you'll have to spend considerably more to get a lot better performance. When you are ready to upgrade to Roon, the Node (or Node2, or Node2i) makes a a great Roon endpoint.

Dude, thank you for this! I MUCH prefer a simpler approach while I'm getting the hang of all the hi-fi things.

I will check out the BlueSound Node.

mkrawcz · « **Reply #57 on:** 10 Dec 2021, 01:01 am »

I use an Allo Boss DAC2 which costs about $150 with a power supply and it seriously competes with my $3000 Matrix Element X in sound quality. Put Moode OS on it and it will be a Roon endpoint, Spotify Connect, etc.

NoahH · « **Reply #58 on:** 10 Dec 2021, 02:33 am »

Ifi zen streamer is pretty popular right now too.

For simplicity, a DAC attached to your Roon Core via USB is likely the simplest too.

nadirmg · « **Reply #59 on:** 12 Dec 2021, 03:54 pm »

Thanks guys! I found a used Bluesound Node 2 for $330 and went with that.

WELL, it's just about time to start building these cabinets. So here's my next question: clamps.

I have a family member with a bunch of pony clamps. But I'm not really sure those will be best. I know I didn't sign up for a cheap hobby, but dang, I'd like to avoid spending half a grand on clamps.

Reviewing Peter's build video, I count that I'll need 11 clamps.
I'm planning on (eventually) getting 2 dual servo H-frame subs and (maybe one day) a pair of NX-Oticas. So these clamps won't be used just once and it'd be cool to buy clamps that will work for all three builds, not just this one.

Can you guys give me some recommendations on clamps that might work for all three without them being the most expensive route? Heck, maybe some of those pony clamps might work too? (thy were used to build a big dining room table.

Thanks guys!