2. amps-preamps
  3. 163360-144384

DAC module of a high-end integrated amplifier

I’m not planning to buy a high-end integrated anytime soon, as they are way out of my budget, but I’m still curious how their DAC sections compare to similar or even lower priced DACs.

Let’s take DAC modules from Gryphon Diablo 120/300, Soulution 330 and Vitus Audio SIA-030. They all cost above 4,000 dollars. Are they actually that good and can compete on sound quality with similar priced DACs, or because they charge 20,000 to 40,000 dollars for the integrated, they can’t charge "only" 1,000 or 2,000 dollars for its DAC module, as the buyer will most certainly think that at this price it can’t be worthy of the rest of the system?

My personal opinion, which is not based on experience, as I’ve never heard or compared those DAC modules (I’m using Chord Qutest with Teddy Pardo power supply), is that because these amplifiers are way overpriced to begin with (please, let’s not get into discussion that it might be only overpriced in my eyes - no amplifier actually costs that much to produce!), so the manufacturer has to price DAC modules accordingly, so as not to make them appear cheap in the eyes of buyers of those amplifiers.
audioinfidel

Showing 2 responses by soix

soix
8,809 posts
 
Ok, I’ll take a swing at it.
My personal opinion, which is not based on experience
The qualifier was really not necessary.
these amplifiers are way overpriced to begin with (please, let’s not get into discussion that it might be only overpriced in my eyes - no amplifier actually costs that much to produce!
Oh good Christ, not another one. Do you know kenjit?
so the manufacturer has to price DAC modules accordingly, so as not to make them appear cheap in the eyes of buyers of those amplifiers.
Yes, it’s obviously yet another deep-state conspiracy. If only there was a way to buy an integrated amp without a DAC so we could undermine their clever plot. DRAT! Sorry I couldn’t be more help with your issues.

soix
8,809 posts
 
still hoping for someone with IQ above 80 to reply (who actually understood what i was asking)
A guy with an IQ of 80 is a genius next to someone with a 60 IQ (and I’m rounding up). I understood your question completely and afforded it the level of response it deserved — you just need an IQ>60 to be able to comprehend it.

Put another way, your question is based on unfounded assumptions that accuses extremely accomplished and respected audio minds, who you’re not qualified to cut their toenails BTW, of potentially trashing their hard-earned reputations by fleecing the totally ignorant public by stuffing their overpriced integrateds with relatively garbage DACs. Only someone with a sub-60 IQ would imply such things toward such designers based on nothing with such an inane question. Maybe next time you can find a way to ask a legitimate question without feeling the need to accuse reputable, smart, hard-working, and highly respected individuals in the audio industry of underhanded and/or overly greedy business practices.  2020 is over man.  Peace out.
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