Interesting thread. On the surface, DACs are nothing more than glorified computers, and yes indeed, why would one spend more than the price of a tricked out desktop for one? Having dabbled in quite a few different DAC topologies, including NOS chips, DSD-upsampling affairs and R2R tubed affairs, nothing really stood out. None of it has the dynamic ease and elasticity of master tape or vinyl. It is just not there, but that is not to say it won't suddenly get there next year with technology being what it is. That aside, I would be inclined to score the vintage monster that was well executed rather than some more current sardine can filled with cheap circuit boards. While I am not an engineer, my suspicion is that the devil is in the details with digital, and thinks like mechanical and electrical grounding and power filtration could be key. The BAlabo does make an attempt at that while very few of the modern sardine cans seems to. A friend of mine heard that dac at Mike Powell's and said it was extremely good. Who knows. Just my two cents.
Buy a $40,000 used DAC for $4,000 or a new one for the same amount?
The advancements in DAC technology make them one of this hobby's most perishable products. But ... what if you can buy a 10 year old DAC for $4,000 that initially cost $40,000? Is it a bargain or waste of money compared to a new DAC that is $4,000? I understand it depends on the specific model etc. But in general, has the technology gotten that much better? And how quickly will the new DAC become outdated? Is it like computers? Past their prime about 3-4 years so you plan to replace them regularly? Thanks for all comments