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Best used DAC 500 or less, need help

OK, I want to get a DAC. I really know next-to-nothing about 'em, but I think I need one. I would love to buy the Wadia that I heard at Music Lovers, but my gardeners income precludes that. My comfort zone is $500 or less. What does your experience tell? Thank You, Martin
truthrider

Showing 2 responses by soix

soix
10,015 posts
 
I'll second Phild's EVS Millennium DAC recommendation. The parts in the DAC 1, if it were produced by a major manufacturer, would mandate a $2000 price tag or higher, but if you can find one used you can probably get it for around $400. The DAC II upsamples and I believe reduces jitter, but that will probably run more in the $700-$800 range, which is still an outrageous bargain if you can find one. I had a modified MSB Link DAC that was good, but the EVS DAC 1 just walked all over it in terms of transparency, dynamics, tonality, and soundstaging--not even close. Obviously it's important to get a good digital cable, but if you don't want to spend a bundle you can pick up an Apogee Wyde Eye at Guitar Center for around $30 that will get you started nicely. Best of luck.

Tim
soix
10,015 posts
 
Just to fill in a couple pieces of info. from the Kana's post above, the EVS DAC II does not use op amps(Ric doesn't much like them so designed the DAC to not use them--I believe it uses a FET output stage). Also, although I'm sure the CAL DAC is a very good piece you may want to consider that CAL is all but out of business at this point and its future is at best unclear. FYI...

Tim
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