What are you upgrading?

[ValentineLuke]

So I’m planning on upgrading my dac. I currently used the built in TI dac in my Bluesound Node 2i, which is also my music source.

I had originally planned on the RME, but after some advice, great information, and this review found on its thread:

RME ADI-2 DAC fs - Official Thread

Ok, so here’s my review of the ADI-2 DAC fs. I’m not a pro reviewer or wordsmith like you guys, so… bear with me. First off, the audio chain. I am comparing the ADI-2 DAC fs (henceforth called 2DAC) against the Bifrost 2 DAC from Schiit (henceforth called BF2). The ADI-2 was set to 2V output on the line out - to match the BF2 output - via the following settings: Volume Lock = On Volume = +1.0 dB Auto Ref Level = Off Ref Level = +7 dBu All other settings = OFF (De-Emphasis, Dual EQ, …

…I decided on the Schiit Bifrost 2.

I’m hoping for a late February purchase. After that I’ll be looking at an amp to replace my Rupert Neve RNHP, specifically the Phonitor XE. In red.

Also working on a Lawton mod, but that’s not so much of an upgrade as it’s more of a fun project.

Fostex Lawton Mod

I’m looking to start a Lawton Mod project and I’d like to know if anyone has had experience with it. I’ll be using either a TR-X00 or TH-900 mk2, probably the former. I’ve spoken with Mark Lawton and he was very helpful and informative. At this point I’m waiting on availability of a particular cup. Any feedback, thoughts, or comments are appreciated.