Addition to above post: The project streamer couples with a used Black Ice FX Dac will hit your target budget goal. I don’t have a budget system but these two devices will keep you happy for quite a while (As much as an audiophile can be)
Best Way to Upgrade Digital
I have over 3K CD's and I am building a new system & not sure what is the best way to set up my digital. Should I get A DAC & CD Ripper or a CD/SACD? I'm leaning towards a CD Ripper with a DAC, given the number of CD's I have it will make it easier to play them & store tehm. I have an old Benchmark DAC1, should I use this with a ripper? Or get a new DAC? Do I need to update my Benchmark DAC? Or should I just get a CD/SACD? Trying to keep cost under $1,200 if possible. Technology is changing so rapidly, that I don't want to spend lots of $$ for something that may be absolete or wothless in a couple of years. Any suggestions?? I do own a Blunode Streamer, sounds ok, hoping the CD's will sound better.