i never felt there is a tradeoff between detail retrieval and soundstaging... in fact in my experience, excellent detail retrieval enables excellent imaging and soundstaging...
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.
Showing 4 responses by jjss49
@gdnrbob @steakster seems to me the best advice of all, for all those pursuing system improvements -- in a system one is already enjoying -- for whatever reason, is... try it in your own system -- ideally without irreversibly committing to the cost of the item -- then be honest with yourself, can you hear a real improvement? if not, move on, just enjoy the music other people might, or say they do... but that hardly matters, right? |
op
no one wants to dupe you... successful 'duping' usually requires cooperation of the 'dupee' try stuff you are curious about in your own system, buy with return privileges, or demo a better dac if possible, or borrow from a friend -- no one can listen for you... if you can't hear a difference, then that box is ticked, just enjoy the music... |