Best DAC+Volume Control under $1000 (used)


Hi,

I just got an Innuos Zen Mk3 server/streamer, which is doing great, but now looking for a DAC WITH good volume control so it can feed my Amplifier (Classe CA-2100).

What's the best option out there... I KNOW, a separate pre-amp would be best, BUT I don't have the budget, or room... so what's a good DAC with volume control that I can get in the used market under $1000?

The ones that come to mind are Mytek Brooklyn, RME  ADI2DACFS, and DAC Magic.  I was dead set on Denafrips, BUT it doesn't have remote or volume control! 

PS. I also have a Denon Receiver that's being used for my HT, alternatively, I could use that as my pre-amp, but wanted to keep it separate as I think it probably would sound better if not fed through a 9-channel receiver... or am I wrong?
alexb76

Showing 1 response by tweak1

Over the decades Ive owned lots pres and dacs, both tube and SS. For about 2 years now I have enjoyed a Audio Alchemy DDP-1 (DAC/PRE) and PS 5 outboard PS. It has most of the I/Os needed and the remote allows me to switch between my Oppo 105 direct for SACD playback, or several inputs that employ the built in dac, which is kind of handy should I want to compare SACD hybrid layers

If you're lucky or patient you might find the pair for ~ $1300, or the DDP-1 alone for ~ $900

hth