2. digital
  3. 133545-83152

Best used or new DAC under $3500

What would be the best DAC for under $3500, new or used? I currently use the Chord Dave and I LOVE it. However, I'm looking to downgrade to save some dough. Some reference points:

1) Yggdrasil:  Sold it as the staging was too narrow/flat and it seemed a little lifeless
2) Ayre QB-9 DSD: Feel its a bit too bright/tizzy - at this point I'm done trying Sabre DACs.

Can anyone recommend a DAC that is not a mainstream sabre chip based DAC? I dont mind it if its an older generation or vintage DAC either - Just something I can get for under $3500. I don't want a discussion to defend Sabre DACs please.

Thanks!

jozurr

Showing 1 response by headphonedreams

headphonedreams
529 posts
 
For something more unusual you could try the Swedish DA909 from Harmony Design. I have an early version of the smaller dac and really liked it. The new version is about $2000 and made with modules that makes it possible to upgrade later.

http://www.harmonydesignus.com/

I couldn't find the product page in English but the Swedish page is here. You'll have to use Google translate or similar.

http://www.harmonydesign.se/index.php?sid=62&katID=4&prodID=25

More to discover