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.
Oh good! Go back there to ASR. The world will be a better place. What are you doing here? Why are you here in this “horrible subjective blather place”?? Polluting every single adult conversation with your childish (or senile, rather ) comments
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Hmmmmm..... by listening? I understand you cannot possibly listen to all the DACs, but for starters: 1 - Determine your budget, how much you want to spend 2 - Do your own research, read reviews, users' impressions on public forums, read measurements (if that is your thing, nothing wrong with that) 3 - Get as much exposure as you can: friends with good systems, dealers showroom, audio shows, etc. etc. 4 - See if you can get a trial at home, or buy used at heavily discounted prices. Now of course, this does not happen overnight, it takes years, and sticking with the hobby, but you can start somewhere small, and can always upgrade from there, when you find a better DAC, a good deal price wise, etc. etc.
P.S. you don’t have to spend "an insane amount of money" on a DAC. Good DACs exist at all price ranges. Noone is forcing you to to spend a lot of money. It also depends on the rest of your system. Matching what you have (speakers, amp, etc.)
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LOL! You still doing your thing sad man? Ridiculous creature |
