Benefit of a Newer (Used) DAC - "Bang for the Buck?"
Despite having a SO who fails to understand why anyone would spend more than $100 on a “radio,” I’ve managed (over several years) to covertly assemble a fairly decent home audio system. (My prize acquisition being a $500 set of LN Belle Klipsch loudspeakers off CraigsList).
At any rate, relying on quality used equipment that is past its technological “expiration date” has, under the circumstances, served me reasonably well. However, I’m now to the point where I’d like to (again) update several components – namely, the DAC.
I’m currently running a Cambridge CXC transport through a Genesis digital lens and a Muse Model Two DAC – both of which, while fully functional, are fairly dated. Realistically, how much noticeable impact can I expect from a newer (used) DAC – like a Bryston BDA-2 or MHDT Pagoda (for example)? FWIW, my current setup does everything I need it to (i.e., play Red Book CDs).
In advance, thanks for any advice/feedback.
I agree with @cal3713 Don’t sweat the balanced design and go with the DAC that sounds the best to your ears. i too support this ^^^ - chasing balanced output over SQ is tail wagging dog if you must have balanced, try ayre codex or dena pontus even better (and more expensive) are sonnet and metrums with true balanced outs |
op bang for buck - get an mhdt nos r2r tubed unit (all current units are, but some of their past units are not) - that plus an upgraded tube will be the most natural dimensional lovely un-digital sound for $ spent i went through almost 30 dacs in the past year to learn what the well reputed suspects have to offer, and that is my conclusion - not the best dac, but the best sounding ones for the $ to my ears, in my system (under a grand) and good job managing the s.o. :) |
