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Bel Canto DAC upgrade vs Scott Nixon Tube DAC

I've always wanted a Scott Nixon DAC. Currently, I own a Bel Canto 1.1 DAC which I like. I have about $600 burning my pocket and was wondering what might give me a better bang for my buck; modding my Bel Canto (www.referenceaudiomods.com) or buying a new Scott Nixon Tube DAC? Of course, buying the Scott Nixon DAC would give me another DAC with a possibility completely different sound as opposed to the Bel Canto.
matchstikman

Showing 1 response by rumatt

rumatt
3 posts
 
I also have the Bel DAC2 and the Nixon USB Chibi. I posted my thoughts here: http://www6.head-fi.org/forums/showthread.php?t=202231

The DAC2 definitely has more air, or "breathy" sound. The comparison is possibly unfair because I use a cheap USB sound card with the DAC2, and the direct USB input with the Chibi. I also tried it using a Monarchy DIP with the sound card, and it had little effect.

I'd honestly prefer a sound that combines the two. Would an NOS tube dac do that for me?
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