2. digital
  3. 162029-21

DAC Choices - $5,000 to $7,000

What are the current top DAC choices in the approximately $5-$7K price range (new or used) that I should look at as possible upgrades to my current Metrum Adagio?  Having an on-board volume control is not a factor as I can operate my system either way.   If I wanted to spend more I would look at Totaldac, Rockna Wavedream Signature, or one of the other top-end contenders, but I selected the price range to achieve a sound quality that is consistent with the rest of my system and because I don't want to spend more due to the still evolving nature of digital technology.  I do like the more natural sound (to my ears) of NOS R2R DACs.  So far, I have considered the three below, but none seem to be a slam-dunk upgrade from the Adagio, which still sounds pretty good in my system.  The decision is complicated by having to "buy to try" so that I can hear one in my system.  Maybe now is not the time for an upgrade.  Any thoughts?

  • Denafrips Terminator w/DSP board - Reportedly has the full body/dense tone type of sound I like, but also has a high'ish output impedance 
  • Holo May KTE - Reportedly measures great for an R2R DAC and has strong reviews 
  • Rockna Wavelight - Some reviewers like it but others put it in the middle of the pack for the price
mitch2

Showing 4 responses by facten

facten
2,764 posts
 
While it doesn’t show as an option in the drop down box selection, it is stated as an option in the product detail narrative

" Our Mystique EVO digital-to-analog converter converts PCM format files up to 24-bit 192KHz via Femto clocked USB, coaxial S/PDIF, or balanced AES. Optional BNC and TosLink optical available"

I have the base EVO , extremely happy with its sound and build/operation
facten
2,764 posts
 
If someone is looking for a Mystique V3 they might consider the option of contacting Ben to see if he has any trade-ins coming in on EVO orders; he tunes them up before re-selling them


facten
2,764 posts
 
I have the EVO and use RCA SPDIF connection, very musical to my ears. Whether or not the balanced connection sounds even better I can not say , but from my experience the single ended connection is very satisfying
facten
2,764 posts
 
Here's a link to the Enjoy the Music review that just came out on the Mojo EVO B4B

http://www.enjoythemusic.com/superioraudio/equipment/0221/Mojo_Mystique_EVO_B4B_21_DAC_Review.htm?ut...
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