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Comparing external DAC to CD player DAC

I have been using a well-known, inexpensive ($300), and well regarded DAC with an old MAC as a music server.  I also stream TIDAL masters and use the CD transport through the server, all going through the external DAC.   I recently pulled out my old CD player, a Marantz CD-67se: an "oldie but a goodie".  The CD player with its onboard, 20+year old DAC is far superior to what I am experiencing with the external DAC, from any source..  Is this expected.  I am not opposed to purchasing a new external DAC, but i really don't want to spend thousands of dollars to reproduce sound I can get from a 20 year old CD player.  What am i missing? Could I be I doing something wrong, or could my external DAC be malfunctioning.

djbarabino

Showing 1 response by ghdprentice

ghdprentice
7,661 posts
 

What is the rest of your equipment?

 

In the price range you are comparing anything is possible. Depending on the rest of your equipment, I would recommend maybe start with a Schiit Gungnir DAC as a reference. It is a very good DAC for the money. This would give you a reference. Then for a streamer look to Blue sound. I would guess this will upgrade the sound you have in all respects and give you a contemporary baseline. 

 

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