DAC Compatible with PS Audio SACD Transport
I have the PS Audio SACD transport on order. The ideal matching DAC to connect the PSA SACD transport is the just released PS Audio Direct Stream DAC II. But at USD8K, the price makes it seem like a bridge too far. Therefore I am looking for another DAC that is compatible with the PSA SACD transport, for SACD playback via I2S. I am eyeing the Holo Audio Spring 3 KTE DAC as it is reported to be an excellent DAC and is substantially cheaper than the PSA DAC.
Are there any other DACs that you can recommend? Or do you think I should bite the bullet and get the PSA SACD DAC?
I must admit to being tempted from time to time, as PSA releases regular DAC updates which essentially gets you a new DAC. But then sanity intrudes LOL.
@danager Yes indeed, but the price in Malaysia is still about USD8K unfortunately. @lordmelton Many thanks. The only drawback for the Denafrips is the lack of a remote. I understand they are very good. @gregoryg LOL. Not sure I follow you completely, but I would be very appreciative (in spirit) of any assistance rendered sir! |
@rar1 Thanks for the input especially in relation to the PSA SACD Transport, and no worries! @slowlane @curiousjim @fittebd Noted as to your recommendations as to MK I version of the PSA DAC. Unfortunately, I don’t live in the US. I’m in Malaysia and they come up for sale here very rarely. No discounts here too. 😔 @vandy357 Appreciate the feedback on the MK1 and MK2 DACs. That most definitely swings me over to the likelihood of buying the MK2 DAC!
@curiousjim The PSA SACD transport does work with certain other DACs with the right I2S configuration. See feedback from @skinzy @smatsui & @philgo01 above.
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@fittebd Good suggestion!! Will bear it in mind. 👍 |
@skinzy I have a growing collection of SACDs myself, which I used to play on the Marantz KI Ruby SACD player. The KI Ruby was initially much better (to my ears) than my Hegel Mohican CD player playing Red Book CDs (as to be expected). However, once I paired the Hegel Mohican with the Hugo TT DAC and MScaler, and some other upgrades (e.g. power cords, fuses), the Hegel far outstripped the KI Ruby SACD player, which caught me by surprise. This also planted the seed in me of wanting to pair a SACD player with a DAC, which would explain why I am looking at the PSA SACD Transport and DAC - or -the PSA SACD Transport and the Holo Audio Spring 3. It is for another rig of mine (Luxman 509X M2 + Dynaudio Heritage). From a sound quality perspective, what would you think would be your choice? |
Ah! The last laugh is on me. I got the PS Audio Perfect Wave SACD transport today and upon installation I discovered that it could only play CDs and not SACDs. I could not activate the SACD layer. The technician of the distributor tried and he could not do so either. I am so very and utterly disappointed in PS Audio. Within 4 hours of installation, the SACD transport is on its way back to the dealer. I have of course asked for a replacement. Not sure whether PS Audio will agree. Not sure whether I will get my money back if PS Audio disagrees. Buyer beware indeed. I have a strong suspicion that I will be heading to the Consumer Claims Tribunal in the near term. With this development and the continuing issues with the PS Audio DAC MKII (read the posts on the PSA forum), I think that I am going to throw in the towel as far as PS Audio goes. |
