Paul, I was using a PS Audio Gain Cell DAC from get go. It was slightly better perhaps than the CD DAC. The Pontus is great, much improved over the GCD and the Streaming is better as well. As I’ve read here and elsewhere a good DAC is a main component for your system. Would love a higher level unit but cost prohibited for me….
Toro, My first speakers at 18 yo were the Heresy and my little brother has them now at 47 yo and stock. These are my older brothers after his passing, 49 yo. I did update crossover and drivers. I just rotated them in for the holidays and every time I do I love them, old friend guess.
For me the Omegas have more detail, cleaner sound, Heresy little more authoritative/stronger both are great for my system.
I did the crossovers for my Heresy first ( due to money) and made the biggest change, then tweeter, then woofer; then mid last as out of stock. The mid also made a noticeable difference, Crites said it has 50% less distortion over original. The speakers are much nicer now, they were 46 yo tech and years old as well, but well loved. My brothers only speakers