Quote:
Originally Posted by audio bill
@Puma Cat - Unless you plan to make use of the additional inputs on the Lumin P1 or its preamp function, have you considered going for the X1 instead? It's still the top Lumin streamer/DAC and reputedly outperforms the P1 in sonics. Never thought I'd hear of you replacing the First Sound Presence Deluxe, and even more surprising with an integrated!
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Hi Bill,
Actually, I have thought about the X1, and while I concur it's a phenomenal component (especially so with the fully dual-mono architecture *and* dual-mono external power supply), it's a fair bit more expensive. And, I will need the preamp function of the P-1 for those occasions I want to fire up my sweet little Class-A AmpCamp mono blocks (designed by Nelson).
And, Lumin has also done a superb job with their LEEDH volume control technology, as it provides flexibility in set-up and for use in various configurations (e.g. with an integrated, or as a pure preamp for use with the liltte Pass monos...).
One of the reasons I'm going to go with Lumin is not only how superb their products sound, but also (and this is really important for my specific requirements) is how well they think through the
integration of the product design with the functional requirements. The LEEDH volume technology is a good example, but also the fact that they've incorporated an optical SFP cage as an input, because they know, both scientifically and from an engineering perspective, why optical has intrinsic engineering advantages over copper-based digital interfaces, e.g. Ethernet and USB. The fact that they put a proper chassis-ground terminal on the back is another plus, because that makes for the best type of connection to an Altaira hub. Aurender does this, too, so good on 'ya Aurender and Lumin! I am just so impressed with both these companies.
As for the First Sound, it's an absolutely fabulous preamp on many different levels, so my hope is it will go to a good home. I just had Emmanuel upgrade the dual external power supply modules to the the new Shunyata Research CCI-X component noise isolation modules (there's two each in each external chassis), so it's even quieter than when I bought it, and you don't need to use Shunyata noise-reduction (NR) power cables with it, the XCs are perfect because the NR is already built-in to the power supplies themselves. I power it with Alpha V2 XCs, and it sings ever so sweetly.
The main reason for doing this, though, is I'll be able to
significantly simplify the system. I spend most of my time listening to Roon and Qobuz, and while the current set-up works well, it's also...complex. By using the P-1 and Constellation, I'll be able to eliminate, get this: 7 cables (woot!), 4 power supplies, and 3 components, plus their respective supporting bits, e.g. boards and footers.
And, to paraphrase a Linn tagline from back in the day, simpler is better.
Cheers.