2. digital
  3. 1375907174

Berkeley DAC Series 1, anything better 2.5K$

Hey guys,

I am about to plunge for a used Berkeley DAC Alpha Series 1 that will set me back by $2200.

I have heard it in comparison with Benchmark and there is no comparison. I did A/B test it with the Series 2, but did not think the difference was worth paying 3000$ extra.

However before taking the plunge I was wondering if there are any other DACs < 2.5K that might beat the Series 1 (its pretty old).

There are so many DACs and so little time so thought someone hear might be able to help. Am I making a big mistake overlooking the new kids on the block (QuteHD or Yamamoto) that might outperform the venerable Berkeley Alpha Series 1.

Looking forward to hearing your opinions.
essrand

Showing 1 response by audiooracle

audiooracle
387 posts
 
At $2500 for a used Berkly you are very close to the Auralic Vega which would cost an extra $1k. The Vega would dramatically outperform the Berkley.

In my shop the Vega has beaten almost every other Dac by a considerable margin, it has incredible resolution but it is much warmer and more analog like then the Berkley.
More to discover