Without question or reservation I recommend the dbaudioblabs Tranquility USB DAC or the Tranquility SE USB DAC. Both have midrange's to die for. You can see excellent reviews of these DAC's by searching Audiogon chat
It's not just the DAC that matters, however. A good power cord and good USB cable are important as well. I suggest with the Tranquility a Ridge Street Audio Poiema!!! USB cable. dbaudiolabs has a very good Essential SE cable as well.
I also strongly suggest that it's coupled with a MacMini computer. 2007-2008 (aka 2,1) Minis are good, but the better way to go is the 2010 Mac Mini. A good peripheral firewire hard drive is important. I suggest a look at the Oyen Minipro 750 GB or 1 TB using the bus for power.
Give Eric Hider a call at dbaudiolabs. I've found him to be most interested in constructive customer service and advice and not just a bunch of sales hype. His experience and breadth of knowledge is very helpful.
I have to tell you that I wouldn't be contributing to this thread about the Tranquility DACs if I wasn't totally and completely pleased in all respects.
:) listening,
Ed
It's not just the DAC that matters, however. A good power cord and good USB cable are important as well. I suggest with the Tranquility a Ridge Street Audio Poiema!!! USB cable. dbaudiolabs has a very good Essential SE cable as well.
I also strongly suggest that it's coupled with a MacMini computer. 2007-2008 (aka 2,1) Minis are good, but the better way to go is the 2010 Mac Mini. A good peripheral firewire hard drive is important. I suggest a look at the Oyen Minipro 750 GB or 1 TB using the bus for power.
Give Eric Hider a call at dbaudiolabs. I've found him to be most interested in constructive customer service and advice and not just a bunch of sales hype. His experience and breadth of knowledge is very helpful.
I have to tell you that I wouldn't be contributing to this thread about the Tranquility DACs if I wasn't totally and completely pleased in all respects.
:) listening,
Ed