DAC? how much more $$$ to get a significant improvement over Bluesound Node?

starting to get into dacs, never thought much of external dacs before

it seems like there are some state of the art pieces out there under 3k, Schitt and Benchmark come to mind

would that be my starting point to really gear a significant upgrade from my Node?

any recommendations below 3k to achieve this?

thanks in advance

audiocanada12-21-2021 12:02am

yyzsantabarbara Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 5,042 posts 12-21-2021 at 02:27am Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete 1) Musetec 005 (incredible DAC) $2969 on sale $3300 MSRP 2) Benchmark DAC3B $1700 a bit less bass and more treble than the Musetec so not as good, but I still love this DAC 3) Gustard X26 Pro $1250 on sale or $1500. Warmer and less detailed than the 005 or DAC3B. A very enjoyable DAC and maybe the choice to make if a warmer sound is desired 4) Topping D90SE $900, sounds like the DAC3B, These are the DACs I have (just sold the Gustard) and have enjoyed them and can recommend them.