Analyzing DACs


As I am new to the hifi hobby, reading various product reviews and noting the details of the test environment have made me very confused.  I understand Stereophile is the hifi bible. In the publication’s DAC published tests the reviewers almost always tested the DAC connected directly to the amplifier. I think I understand why—nothing in the chain influencing the DAC sound. Is that the correct assumption? If that’s the case why incorporate a preamp if the DAC has a preamp section that is a common feature even on high end DACs? I’m in the market for a new DAC. I’m trying to avoid unnecessary components if possible. Any thoughts would be appreciated. Thanks.  

tee_dee

Showing 1 response by petaluman

I don't know much about the Mytek line, but they have an interesting approach.  The Mytek offers the choice of analog & digital volume control.  Indeed, there seem to be a lot of similarities between the Brooklyn & P6.  Both have preamp facilities (additional inputs, including phono sections, volume control) as well as DACs (both appear to be based on the ESS 9018, even).  Have you compared them against each other, section by section?

The P6 is much more flexible, with more inputs, home theater bypass, bass management, etc.  If these have value to you and the DAC sections sound acceptably close, consider selling the Mytek & using the P6 DAC while you ponder your next acquisition.  If the Mytek works for you as a standalone preamp, you could do the reverse.

If all of your sources are digital, source switching really occurs at the DAC.  In that case, a DAC with a satisfactory volume control could be all the preamp you need