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noob intro

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audioh

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noob intro
« on: 23 Jul 2024, 12:45 pm »
Hello all, I am an old audiophile that got started on Dynaco components in the 70s.  Unfortunately I sold my tube amp and my 400 a while back.  Now I have dusted off my old PAT-4 and a DH 500 to set up in the basement. I hope to tune up what I have and see if I can add a DAC to possibly expand what I can play. 
« Last Edit: 23 Jul 2024, 02:34 pm by audioh »
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FullRangeMan

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Re: noon intro
« Reply #1 on: 23 Jul 2024, 01:54 pm »
Welcome to AC. If you have hi efficiency speakers you could get the luxury of a small tube amp.
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Phil A

Re: noob intro
« Reply #2 on: 23 Jul 2024, 03:10 pm »
Welcome!
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ArthurDent

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Re: noob intro
« Reply #3 on: 23 Jul 2024, 04:12 pm »
Greetings & Welcome to AC   :thumb:
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kd4ylq

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Re: noob intro
« Reply #4 on: 23 Jul 2024, 11:19 pm »
Welcome to the Circle! Starting with what you have is a good way to get back into the groove IMO. When you are happy with the sound of the system with your analog inputs and you want to go digital, my advice is go real slow, working your way higher in $$ on a DAC (or DAC combo) only when you can actually hear significant incremental improvements. If you "hit a wall", you may need to upgrade the amplification chain and/or speakers before you can discern any further improved quality of a better digital source. Good luck and keep let us all know how your process works out (the journey is part of the fun).  :)
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audioh

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Re: noob intro
« Reply #5 on: 26 Jul 2024, 12:54 am »
Just decided not to spend the time to refurbish my preamp and just buy a certified good used one.  Can anyone recommend a place to start looking for a preamp with phono & CD inputs for less than $1500?
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stylerb

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Re: noob intro
« Reply #6 on: 26 Jul 2024, 02:22 am »
the most popular used site right now is usaudiomart. audiogon used to be the leader for used hifi but their fees have caused massive loss of customers. however, if you want something used and from a dealer then audiogon is probably the best place. sellers with good audiogon ratings are likely trustworthy. theres a couple other reputable used sites: tmraudio and skyfiaudio. if you live someplace with actual audio dealers (most of us dont now) then go check them out, you might stumble onto a good demo deal.
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stylerb

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Re: noob intro
« Reply #7 on: 26 Jul 2024, 02:24 am »
also, some of the budget gear is quite good, check out schiit audio, read their forum on headfi - good stuff and under 1500 new.
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audioh

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Re: noob intro
« Reply #8 on: 26 Jul 2024, 06:41 pm »
Thanks for the great tips!
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ArthurDent

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Re: noob intro
« Reply #9 on: 26 Jul 2024, 06:50 pm »
Now that you have your 3 posts in you can search "The Trading Post" on AC, see bottom of opening page.
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