Best practices when conducting a DAC comparison

I agree with bigkdz. If you can’t tell which one is better within the first 30 seconds there really isn’t a significant difference.

What????? Jesus. What exact test tones are you using? It takes several tracks just to fully exercise a DAC. Bass, air, imaging, impact which is not to mention some issues like fatigue, take much longer than 30 seconds to set in. Then how will you compare the Redbook, High Rez and DSD performance? 30 seconds is barely long enough to eliminate a DAC you will never like, assuming it is warmed up but is not a fair way to choose among good performers, unless you believe they all sound the same, and specs are all that matter. If this is you, buy the cheapest you can find.

Best,

E

I have MQA in my beloved DAC, and it's disabled. I find I prefer high resolution with a different filter than it demands. I don't hear a benefit of MQA. Sorry.

As for auditioning, make sure both components are 24 hours warm and broken in. YMMV, but that's a more fair test. Ice cold, some DAC's do better than others.

Next, compare red book as much as high resolution. Don't assume that the DAC which has the most difference is the better one. The last generation of DAC's play red book exceedingly well. The previous generations only played high rez well.

Best,

E