Chord Dave or Ayre QX5 Twenty DAC???


Down to two choices in DAC's, the Chord Dave or the Ayre QX-5 Twenty. Comes down to best sound or versatility and cost. Speakers are Wilson Audio Sasha's and amp is T+A 2500R. Love the versatility of the Ayre but the sound of the Chord Dave is phenomenal, not sure if the Ayre could compare. Not sure if the Chord would still sound as good without spending mass amounts on a power regenerator and power cable. 
musicfx

Showing 2 responses by knghifi

I didn’t say that the Ayre was not a nice DAC; simply that it’s not in the same league as top tier DACs
@bar81 Have you heard the Ayre?   Is your conclusion based on personal experience?
Just to show there's no best but just personal preferences / system synergy.  

Used my Dana USB cable on all DACs

( note after the shootout, Mike mentioned he likes the QX5 with another USB
Why?   Should use the best matching cable?

I had a Lampizator Atlantic in my system for 2 weeks and it's very very good ... most neutral Lampizator to my ear.   Ultimately I prefer my more neutral and a touch more transparent ModWright Sony HAP-Z1ES.   But if anyone needs a little tube magic, Atlantic would do the trick.