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Back to the DAC

Just a bit of an update. When I inquired about a DAC upgrade in a recent post, it was suggested that I look at upgrading my cables first. Since then, I have done so (see my virtual system for that). Not over the top stuff, but a definite improvement over the mostly stock, generic cables I originally had.

System is sounding pretty darn good, but like most of us, you always wonder what a more expensive DAC will offer in the way of sound quality improvements.

Many of the recommended, higher priced DACs seem to include streamers and/or offer pre-amp capabilities. I have a good streamer and pre-amp and really don’t want all those components in one box.

Have any of you experienced a DAC which offers the sound qualities of highly praised units like the Mola Mola Tambaqui, DCS Lina, T&A 200, Weiss DAC501, etc. which their only function is a DAC?

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Showing 2 responses by kennymacc

kennymacc
500 posts
 

My Ayre Acoustics QX-5 Twenty streaming DAC is a superb DAC, as well as a superb streamer.   Happy listening. 

kennymacc
500 posts
 

I would most highly recommend one of the upper-end Ayre Acoustics DACs.  I find that the Ayre Acoustics DACs have a beautifully natural, super high resolution,  organic, smooth, extremely dynamic, detailed and transparent signature sound.  I have the Ayre QX-5 Twenty DAC with the built-in streamer, but I believe these can be had without the streamer.  After auditioning several other reference DACs, all costing more than the Qx-5 Twenty, I chose the Ayre.  After auditioning the QX-5 Twenty DAC, I felt that it offered everything I needed in a reference quality sounding DAC, and that there was no need to send more for anything else.  Happy listening.       

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