Analyzing DACs

Online empirical research? That’s oxymoronic. "Researching" online is the exact opposite of empirical research.

finally, a serious post in this train wreck of a forum thread LOL

I really enjoy hearing detail and separation. That is I can hear each instrument and clear vocals.

just buy a chord qutest and be done, or even for less money, an rme adi-2 if you don’t care much about imaging (it is clear as a whistle and flat as a cardboard cutout figure)

no need to further belabor this already tortured subject of measurement vs listening for dacs- the credible folks on this particular forum listen to music, evaluate gear through listening, measurements are of relatively minor significance

I read the MSB select manual; the OEM suggests direct to amp connection.

as dacs go it is a bit of an older model now, but my beloved msb analog dac functions not only as a streaming dac (with lan card) but also has an extra set of analog inputs (for a phono stage for example)... it works brilliantly going into power amps - with both rca and xlr outputs, and a terrific remote control

I’m trying to avoid unnecessary components if possible. Any thoughts would be appreciated.

op - buy a one box integrated unit with built in streamer, and speakers

or even powered, streaming speakers