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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?

128x128navyachts
ervikingo
129 posts
 

@nonoise Yes, the hype train is in full force.  I read the 6 Moons comments and figured I'd give it a shot. 

I am happy with my Topping but feel its a bit electronic/choppy on some material.  For example the vocals on Pros and Cons of Hitchiking sound a bit crisp and chopped off.  I tried the CD and Streamed versions and the effect is similar.  On my Theta (fed from CD transport) it flows more.  Hope that the R2R scheme softens the steps and offers additional musicality that I can perceive.

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nonoise's avatar
nonoise
10,578 posts
 

thought they were all home built…or was this one just built in a different home…

By the looks of the case, it appears to be all his doing based on what he learned. Here's the video:

All the best,
Nonoise

ervikingo
129 posts
 

FYI, when I ordered they only had 7 left in stock (in black).

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
4,328 posts
 

Congrats @ervikingo ! Let us know if it stands up to the hype. I feel confident you can improve upon topping though with several DACs. Just look at the list of DACs Amir didn’t like and throw a dart. 

ervikingo
129 posts
 

@audphile1 that is funny right there 🤣

 

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