DAC RECOMMENDATIONS PLEASE


Hello,

Presently my system is: Qobuz > Lumin U1 Mini Streamer > Electrocompaniet ECD-1 Dac > Herron VTSP-3A (R03) Pre > Odyssey Khartago Extreme Amp > KEF r11 Speakers.

The ECD-1 dac is 20 years old. I've had issues with this dac at times not playing 24/192 music at all even though its rated to handle it. Recently I've had to adjust settings in the Lumin to play 24/192 music at 24/96 in order for it to play. So, I want to replace it with something using a bit more current technology. My budget is 1800.00 for something used.

To my ears, the KEF r11 is a very detailed and revealing speaker. Well recorded music sounds great. Poorly recorded music sounds very poor and again to me, that means edgy and fatiguing highs. I'm looking for a warm and musical presentation. Things I've done to lean in that direction are getting the Herron pre and adjusting the bias of the Khartago towards a warmer sound also.

Dacs I've been studying have been R2R NOS dacs like Border Patrol, Denefrips Pontus II, and others. I also have looked at the Schiit Yggy LIM.  So I'd love to hear from anyone who perhaps has had a similar quest and what was found to fit the warm and musical goal. Thanks for any comments!

JM

jfmerk

Showing 4 responses by lordrootman

just wait for @soix 

He’s going to ask you Again, this totally depends on what sound characteristics you’re looking for

he’s the expert but we don’t know his background  😂😂😂😂

@soix 

being  a reviewer for 50 years or whatever doesn’t make you resident expertise on every speakers , dacs streamers amplifiers and so on 

all what I’m saying is when someone post for specific amps streamers etc etc and looking for actual owners expressions and never own it stay away 

@soix I’m nobody just a music lover 

I’m not going to pretend that I know about every speakers, dacs , streamers and so on 

pls sometimes allow actual owners to share their experiences 

you don’t even have your system photos posted who is going to believe you?

I know you’re trying to help but don’t sound like ultimate expertise.