Lots of really good suggestions and advice here. In my mind none are more important than trusting your own ears. I upgraded my DAC less than a year ago. I set a budget and started to audition. I had a dealer come to my house with 4 different ones on tow all at varied price points. I heard subtle differences between all of them but not one was good enough to make me want to get rid of what I already had in my system. He then plugged in a Weiss 502 and, for me, it was like crossing the street and getting a completely new perspective on what I was hearing. This wasn't a small upgrade, it was a leap. It was double my budget but I went into the safe and peeled off the cash. Every day I listen I'm happy I did.
DAC diminishing returns
Looking for some experienced input on the diminishing return as you go up the the DAC ladder. I mostly stream music and occasionally listen to CDs. Currently, I’m using a Schiit Bifrost Multibit DAC. It’s connected to my Naim Nait 5Si and that drives Zu Omen ii speakers. In my limited experience, I have not heard any substantial differences when changing DACs. I’m considering a Denafrips Pontus DAC. Does the significantly higher cost justify what might be a marginal increase in sound quality? Is buying a more expensive DAC for better sound just splitting hairs, and making you feel better about your system? Are different DACs just different coloration of the sound?
I don’t want to be duped into buying something I don’t really need. Thanks.