I would definitely listen to a new dac purchase or buy from a source with a good return policy. I have been listening to dual Wolfson WM8740 chips and I love the sound they produce. I then purchased a Hegel H390 integrated with a AKM AK4490 chip and the reviews were all very good. The amp is very good, the dac, meh, I still listen to the dual Wolfsons.
Best route to go for new dac?
Hello. I am looking for a better dac. I am currently using My MacBook Pro with a dragon fly red. Audioquest golden gate 3.5mm to RCA to McIntosh Ma 252. audio quest type 4 to Revel Perfoma3 F206 Speaks and SVS SB3000 sub. The sub has Audioquest Black lab IC. I have around 1000 bucks. Best route to go? I mainly use Tidal. Thank you!