2. digital
  3. 1336840116

Any good quality DAC in $300-400 price range?

I'm looking for a USB DAC that supports all available input sampling frequencies (i.e. 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, and 192) in $300-400 price range.
I've found a couple of DACs that support those sampling rates, but they require a USB to S/PDIF converter.
Is there any USB one that supports all of the input sampling rates and does not require a USB to S/PDIF converter?
Thanks.
henryjudy

Showing 1 response by vicdamone

vicdamone
850 posts
 
With a bit more research you'll find you don't want the DAC to do the upsampleing unless it has defeatable filters, not likely at this price point. Upsampling can be accomplished with playback software such as Pure Music.

All the connectivity features, and kHz numbers are simply fluff compared to the quality of overall design and resulting sonic quality of the DAC's output. It's not unusual to see people using an $1800. USB to SPDIF converter with a $700. DAC

The Schiit Bifrost is actually a very good, if not currently one of the best, suggestions at this price point.

http://www.digitalaudioreview.net.au/index.php/audio-reviews/digital-source-reviews/item/330-schiit-bifrost-24/192-dac-akm4399
More to discover