DAC experiences?

Over the past several years we have compared many high-end DAC's including the Dave, Terminators, Holo Audio, PS Audio Mk1 and Mk2.  In stock form the PS Audio MK1 and MK2 did not have the resolution to keep up with the top dogs however with the proper audio transformers and power supply mods We all feel there is nothing out there that will touch the overall sound quality and realism of the modified MK1 and MK2 including the new PS Audio PMG DAC which is having a rough start with lots of issues. We thought the new PMG DAC was very tubby sounding and just did not have that same musical realness the older series has.  The designer of the original two versions, Ted Smith was not involved in the new series and feel this has a lot to do with the inferior sound quality.

My ears usually tilt towards R2R ladder DACs, especially Denafrips and Holo Audio.

You should give the Directstream DAC a listen.  It's a DSD / FPGA based DAC.

I liked the R2R DAC's also (Terminator PLUS and Holo May) until I heard the modified Directstream DAC's.  It's if you can reach out and touch the performers it's so real sounding. Speakers totally disappear.. 

APSaudiotransformers is having a Blowout sale right now.

Yes... Your other gear needs to be up to par to even hear how much better top end  DAC's can sound however worth every penny when you do and find a top end DAC that you like.

One can purchase a fully modified and restored Directstream MK1 "Signature Series PLUS" DAC with a full year warranty for under $3400 shipped.

You can also have the Directstream MK2 fully modified for less than $1500.

Not bad for a top notch DAC of this caliber.

I think the new PMG series DAC retails for $8500.

@kirkwallace

APSaudiotransformers