2. digital
  3. 189627-145382

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
duckworp's avatar
duckworp
257 posts
 

I see you are sorted. But in case others are reading, there are two European DACs worth thinking about, both north of $10k though:

1. the CAD 1543 mkII is an incredible R2R DAC with no streamer. In fact it is beautifully stripped down with a in-house designed internal power supply and mains cable, USB input only, RCA output only. Scott Berry, the engineer, sources the old Philips 1543 DAC chips and builds this pure no-compromise DAC by hand in Cambridge in England. It sounds incredible, the most analogue-sounding DAC I have heard.

2. Also the Vitus SD-025 is another DAC-only sublime sounding DAC, hand made in Denmark. Hans Ole Vitus used his high-end turntable to fine-tune and voice this DAC.

 

smallmouthrule
8 posts
 

Audio Mirror Tubadour V is excellent.

mrmanisundaram
82 posts
 

Would highly recommend Rockna....not as well known, but outstanding.

navyachts's avatar
navyachts OP
583 posts
 

@smallmouthrule yes, it is, but trying to move on from R2R and not so into tubes, thanks.

@duckworp at $20K for the CAD 1543 mkII and $33K for the Vitus SD-025 they oughta be good, outta my league I'm afraid!

navyachts's avatar
navyachts OP
583 posts
 

@mrmanisundaram agreed, thanks.

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