Dac: Old vs New


I have older DAC's that sound good but I've had them for several years. Benchmark DAC 1 and PS Audio Digital Link III with Mods. Would a newer DAC from, Topping (DX-5), Schiit (Modi Multibit 2)or SMSL, be a SIGNIFICANT improvement in sound? Seems like the newer DAC's have way more resolution and transparency. I prefer those attributes in gear over warmth. 

tonyjack

Perhaps a DAC with a tube output is in order? Something way different sounding may just be what the doctor ordered. 

Tonyjack

 

I'm a fan of Gustard for fairly inexpensive DAC's. I have one and love it

There is a 22x pro listed for a good price. It offers a lot for the money and right in your budget

Thanks for all the information from everyone! It's very helpful and very interesting.Please keep them coming. I'm taking it all in!!

 

@tonyjack - have you thought of upgrading your cables?

Todays components really are better than many systems allow them to be. Upgrading the cables allow modestly priced components to excel to levels I did not think possible

I’ve achieved great improvements in sound quality on reasonably modest components (i.e. $400-$700) by using quality cables with them.

  • improved clarity and details
  • fast dynamic response
  • spacious and well defined image

A good place to start would be Audio Envy Cables - excellent cables for a modest outlay - great bang for the buck

Zavfino are also very good, with their TOTL cables costing a little more for stellar performance.

I started with the interconnects and then upgraded the power cables also on both my Schiit Bifrost, which I then replaced that with my Node2, both of which stepped up their performance level with good cables.

Hope that helps - Steve

 

I bought the original Ayre QB9 in 2011. In around 2017 I purchased an upgrade from Ayre and the difference was revealing. Around 2020 I purchased another upgrade from Ayre and the difference was astounding. At this stage, the Ayre DAC is so good that I had the opportunity to replace it but decided to put that money towards a better streamer/renderer instead. So in a discursive way to answer your question, a new DAC will provide improvements however keep in mind, a DAC bought today will be antiquated within ten years time. For $500.00, I must admit I’d have trouble finding a DAC that could deliver as I really don’t know about DAC’s in that price range.