Lots of great choices at that price point, including many mentioned here (I have a slight bit of experience with the Holo and Border Patrol and was impressed). I recently purchased a Lampizator Atlantic and love it. Excellent clarity, natural sounding, serious holographic imaging, rich tone. Base unit lists slightly above your price point, but I will bet you could talk Lampi down a bit or find one used.
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!
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!
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- 138 posts total
Browsing the listings a few things jump out at me.... This is a DAC I've always lusted after I do love Japanese sound.. https://www.audiogon.com/listings/da-converters-free-shipping-230v-50-60hz-2018-01-01-digital This seems well regarded and uses the PCM-1704 chip https://www.audiogon.com/listings/da-converters-lessloss-dac-2004-mk-ii-dac-d-a-converter-dac2004mki... I certainly second the recommendations of either Border Patrol or a used Audio Note DAC if you can find one in your price range. Good luck! |
- 138 posts total