DAC comparison


Hello all. I have a chance to grab an ARC Dac 8. I currently have a Schiit Yggy. Has anyone had the opportunity to hear both that could comment on these two dacs? Thanks in advance. 

backdoor

Showing 3 responses by david_ten

Former owner of the DAC 7 and the Yggdrasil. Sharing more about your preferences, desired outcomes and system focus will be helpful.

@backdoor  If your decision was solely around the Yggdrasil, I'd suggest upgrading from it. There are many options that deliver what the Yggdrasil does well AND also give you more. In some cases, much more. For reference regarding what I just wrote, my preference coalesces around naturalism, realism, and emotional connectivity.

The DAC 8 is a 'different' choice. Analogous (though not entirely) to someone choosing 'vintage' components over modern ones. As others have pointed out, listening to it within the context of your system and goals is important. 

My point being, were it me, I'd be comfortable upgrading from the Yggdrasil without an in home audition TO: current well reviewed / owner feedback DACs. However, if the choice was the DAC 8, I would want it in my system first...before making a decision.

FWIW, despite the Yggdrasil being the 'superior' DAC, it is the ARC DAC 7 that remains memorable and special.

@charles1dad   Hi Charles. dCS (gen prior to Apex), which I seriously auditioned, is one such example. It is without doubt a top tier DAC technically; and for it's owners: also in performance. However, for my preferences, it fell short. Hopefully this clarifies my previous post.  Let me know?

I've been test driving cars. The Audi S5 and S6 are illustrative / representative of the same. Uber competent. Yet missing more than something [for me].  : )