Wait until you find out there is a 2.5-way. Oh and what about Line Source Array!

So you’re using the Flex DAC as a Dirac corrected preamp? Does your Flex DAC also DSP correct your turntable or is your Hegel (what model) an integrated amp with a phono stage?

Curious, what’s your reference setup?

The X7ESD is one of the greatest pieces of electronics engineering conceived. It basically performs like an Esoteric Grandioso K1 (without SACD of course) for literally 8% of the cost as a used device (if it was new today it would price around $6800). You can hook this thing up to six figure systems and still be uncovering sonic details from its balanced outputs.

A UK based company with an American flag behind their product… interesting marketing choice.

200k in gear $15 folding chairs. Nice.

Synergy between the components in the system is what matters most. Taking everything into consideration means the difference between a ‘meh’ result and a ‘holyshit this is amazing’ result. I’ve put $2500 speakers on $5000 and $450 amps and the cheap amp doesn’t do the speakers justice. You need to find a balance across the entire system.

Highend audio brands generally have a house aesthetic which is found throughout the marketing and products themselves. Check out Simaudio, Naim and Esoteric. Also have a look at Ortofon’s logotype and radial mark — it’s amazing mid century work.