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Best DAC

Hey Audiogon,

This is my first post here.  I've been doing quite a bit of research and am looking for a DAC for my system.

My laptop will be the source.  I already have an Audio Research pre-amp that I find to be the best for my listening preferences.  So, I really don't need the DAC to do anything besides convert... no pre-amp or headphone amp needed.

I would like the most neutral DAC possible, and am tempted to check out the Benchmark DAC1 USB or DAC2.  I also like the Bel Canto DAC2 for its simplicity.  I will probably be looking on the used market at anything under $1000.  Of course, the greater the value, the better.

Overall, I am looking for the most neutral DAC possible because I believe that my pre-amp, amp and speakers should be the components coloring the music.  I see people mentioning that the benchmarks are too "harsh" or "revealing" but I think that may be cleared up by the pre-amp.  We won't know until its in the system, but I want to make an educated purchase.

Any input is greatly appreciated.  Thank you
mr_sacrimoni

Showing 1 response by mr_sacrimoni

mr_sacrimoni OP
2 posts
 
Thanks for the input everybody. I currently have the SP-6 pre-amp if that makes a difference. I saw the ARC Dac3 but I wasn’t sure how that would connect to the computer.

Would the ARC Dac7 or Dac8 be a serious upgrade from the Dac3? I know the 7 and 8 are USB capable.

1,500 for the Dac7 doesn’t seem too far off budget if it would be worth it. But are there any better options when we approach that 1.5 to 2K price range?

Also, is the Regen a piece that I would definitely want to integrate into the system? I’ll be using my laptop for a while before I invest in a dedicated music server, but it has decent power.

Thanks again
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