Currently I love the sound I'm getting from an Ayre CX-7eMP CD player, Anthem Statement D2 preamp (theater bypass used), Bryston 14B-SST2 amp, and PMC MB2 speakers ... in a theater, designed/calibrated by an audio engineer and custom installed by a local A/V store. Remote control is RTI T2C.
I just added a Sonos with NAS to distribute my CD collection throughout the house (integrated into my Crestron house audio/lighting center), and I think it's convenience is amazing. Right now it uses its own DAC for that purpose, which isn't a big deal for music while I'm in the shower.
I like the convenience so much that I would like to create a NAS system in the theater (my main listening room) that can match/beat my Ayre set-up. Doesn't have to use Sonos, but ok if it does. Price is not a significant factor (e.g., if a $5k DAC is the best then fine), mainly quality.
I'm thinking a DAC that bypasses the Anthem preamp to drive the Bryston amp directly would be the best idea???
Sonos into a DAC which bypasses the pre-amp? If so, which DAC(s)?
Connect the NAS into a DAC (i.e., not using the Sonos) which bypasses the preamp? If so, which DAC(s)? And which software program? (iPhone apps are nice.)
I'm wide open to take the NAS route and looking for the convenience of a hard drive system with the best sound I can get. Please advise!
Thanks so much,
Greg
