In this case I would look for a CDP that has access to it's internal DAC. Such as the NAD C565BEE or Cambridge 851C as recommended by willland.
Dac level to replace NAD C542
Replacing my NAD C542. Never owned a dac. I wish for a parallel or upgrade move as I do like the C542.
So my question is simple really. What is the minimal level of dac required to equal or surpass the performance of the C542? I will be hugely disappointed if I end up with a downgrade and of course would like an upgrade. My cost ceiling is about 1k, new or used. So far Im considering a new/refurbished Cambridge Azur 851 (either C, D, or preferably N) or a Emotiva Stealth DC 1.
Looking for suggestions. Here is my current 2 channel system. I will use a Panasonic BDP for transport duty.
So my question is simple really. What is the minimal level of dac required to equal or surpass the performance of the C542? I will be hugely disappointed if I end up with a downgrade and of course would like an upgrade. My cost ceiling is about 1k, new or used. So far Im considering a new/refurbished Cambridge Azur 851 (either C, D, or preferably N) or a Emotiva Stealth DC 1.
Looking for suggestions. Here is my current 2 channel system. I will use a Panasonic BDP for transport duty.
Nad C542 CDP
VTL 2.5 preamp
Sumo Andromida 3 Power amp
Paradigm Reference Studio 100 V3 Speakers
2 Paradigm Servo 15 V1 subs
Cheapish but well built AR interconnects