2. digital
  3. 172637-15065

Berkeley Audio Design Alpha DAC Series 3

Just upgraded from a BADA DAC Series 1 to 3. I haven’t seen many reviews out there so I thought I’d share my thoughts. It’s definitely better than my Version 1 (w/ MQA upgrade which was a big upgrade) that I’ve owned for nearly 10 years. Sonically, it has better detail across the spectrum according to my ears but without added harshness. At twice the price roughly, I’d estimate that it’s 15-20% better sounding. I’m used to the hi end price-value curve generally flattening so I was satisfied with the improvement. Physically, it’s a larger unit with a little better casework but nothing like the Reference. The larger dimensions were needed to incorporate some of the Reference’s innards. Also, no more transformer hum that I could hear when up close to my Version 1. It’s a great company and the owners are terrific to deal with. I had some field upgrade issues with my Version 1 that I received great support. 

lofgren

Showing 1 response by egrady

egrady
137 posts
 

I'm using mine with an Oppo 103D feeding the new Vanity Pro. The Alpha DAC 3 is my first DAC, I've been using a Marantz SA10. 

I have a fairly high end two channel system and I've always preferred analog. My dealer, Galen Carol Audio, thought the Berkeley might be the one to convert me to digital. He was right. Massed strings on Bruno Walter recordings, always a problem, now sound far less edgy. Not quite RCA strings, but close and more than acceptable. The tell is I'm listening to more and more digital.

The Alpha DAC 3 is a fantastic product and I cannot recommend it enough.

 

 

 

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