+1 on an 861. If you don’t have the budget to stretch to an 808.6 or 818v3 (which I’ve owned) an 861v4 with LPSU and ID40 is a very nice place to sit, as I have been for a few years. I do believe, in a 2-channel analogue setup, the 808.6/818v3 will better it, but it’s still a wonderful DAC/Pre. It also opens up the possibilities of Subs and Trifield…

A 568.2 isn’t a bad idea also, if budget is tight. Make sure it’s an MM model to make the most of the 596 and don’t forget it has apodising firmware, which really did improve the sound. Next best thing to 800 series.

I’ve never been taken with the Primare house sound myself. I came to Meridian after Naim gear. Now when I listen to it, it sounds basic and unpolished to me after years of Meridian ownership. YMMV.

Last edited by 3dit0r; 2024-10-15 11:16.
HC: 861v4/ID40/LPS, DSP5000, DSP5000VC, DSP3100, SW1600, HD621, Oppo BDP-105, Sony VPL-HW55ES
2-Channel: Oppo BDP-105, TEAC VRDS-7/Trichord Clock 3/PSU, 551, Quad 303, Harbeth Compact 7ES-3, Kimber cables, Russ Andrews mains and supports.
Previous Meridian: 5000C, 5200SL, 7200.2, 6000, 562V.2, 568.2mm, 800v4, 808.2i, 818v2/v3, 861v8, 502