DAC choices: Exogal v. Schiit v Benchmark v. Denafrips


I’m considering a new DAC. Sound quality is paramount among the choices I'm considering. This would be replacing a Theta DSPro Basic IIIa DAC. My considerations are Exogal Comet Plus, Schiit Yggy, Benchmark DAC3L and Denafrips Venus. 

Thoughts from those who own one of these or who have compared them?
celander

Showing 1 response by ianrodger

I replaced my Rega DAC with the Denafrips Pontus late last year if you're interested.

I have found it to be a really nice, warm sounding DAC, with very balanced sound from top to bottom having plenty of tight bass and a very controlled (but not rolled off) treble with no bloat or harshness anywhere. A very organic and analogue sound compared to the Rega.

It certainly improved over the course of a few weeks use (>100 hours) to the stage where I am confident in saying that it is the best my all digital system has ever sounded.
I run an Antipodes DS streamer/server with FLAC ripped CDs and Tidal via Roon to the Pontus using a Curious USB cable and use the analogue outputs on the Pontus to various valve amps and on to my Klipschorns.
Apparently all of the Denafrips DACs have a similar family sound signature and I imagine the Venus is similar to the Pontus with even more of the same goodness.
I hope this helps.