A separate dac and preamp or a good dac with pream


Hi all,
Don't know if this was posted in Audiogon but could not find any.
I am undecided abiut getting the Teac UD503 to use as a dac and preamp or get a dac. Currently, I am using a sacd (Marantz SA8005) for my physical and digital source. Am thinking a dac would improve the digital a step but do not want another piece of equipment on the shelf. Currently using pre/power and would like to keep the sacd player.
All feedback welcomed.
cusco69

Showing 1 response by georgehifi


In my opinion I would get a dac that has output level control done in the digital domain, and connect direct to your amp. As this will be the most transparent/dynamic sound you can get from source to amp.

It would be nice to get one that you can set the max volume level, some have two/three or four setting done inside that give you a choice of output level, 0-2v or 0-3v output and I've even seen some that do 0-8v

What this means is you set it for your system so you can use it's digital volume control at and above 75%, so you don't run the risk of "bit stripping" it's not bad but can lower resolution if below 75% of full, on some cdp or dacs

Cheers George