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A DAC that can make digital sound analog?

Hi All,

I have a ModWright Oppo 105D. It’s excellent....but it sure don’t sound like vinyl or tape.

What DACs have you heard that really work like magic on digital audio files? 

I am interested in DACs that kill that digital glare/blare, that gives you that sense of ‘blackness’ or ‘darkness’ to the audio soundscape, really letting you hear into the mix...ya know that layering, space and depth that is very evident on tape.

Very curious to hear your thoughts.

Thanks!
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lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,417 posts
 
Never heard of the SW1X DAC, but their website makes for some interesting reading. Their design approach reminds me of Audio Note, both based in the UK and believe R2R NOS is the way to achieve analogue-like sound. SW1X even offers Signature (upgraded) and Special (custom) models using primo parts such as Black Gate caps. 
They also stress that minimal components and filters be used in the current/voltage conversion and analogue stage.


extracampine
17 posts
 
Lampizator dacs are definitely worth checking out. In fact, equalling the quality of analogue playback was kind of their raison d’etre. 
madsno
6 posts
 

My Ethosz Audio tube DAC with Philips TDA 1541A chip does that.

I have my Oppo and iPad plugged in to it, and it sounds great :-)


2psyop's avatar
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2psyop
1,593 posts
 
All DAC’s convert a digital signal to analog. That’s how we hear it. But I understand the question. Also, we are led to believe ALL analog sources sound great. I mean does everyone own a Well Tempered or VPI turntable and great phono preamp? Does everyone have a great cartridge and tonearm? Just as there exists WIDE differences in the quality of sound coming from a DACs it is also the same for analog devices. 
brettmcee's avatar
brettmcee OP
218 posts
 
How many of you are familiar with the ModWright Oppo 105D?

Which of these excellent suggestions is going to best the ModWright Oppo?

All in all the Oppo with upgrades runs about $4,000.
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