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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
krelldog
323 posts
 

I strongly second the PS Audio DirectStream Mk 1.

I went from a Yiggy to the Directstream and its not even close.

This was a legit 6K DAC,,,,,and your stealing it a 2K refurbished.

This is a complete no brainer at this price point.

BTW- comes with a fantastic remote so you can change inputs on a fly.

And the build quality is superb. You can also go direct into your amp using the remote for volume.

rick_n's avatar
rick_n
207 posts
 

OP is asking about a very intelligent and important upgrade.  I believe in music streaming the DAC is essentially the phono cartridge.  I would take a good look at the Holo Audio Spring 3.  This R2R DAC should give you a lot of what you're looking for and second hand should be right on your price.  The interconnects from your DAC to your Pre will likely be the most important in the chain so take care which ones you choose.  Good luck and cheers.  

newwater
14 posts
 

I believe a DAC is the next most important piece in your systems with speakers being #1. I like to get a betterDAC I buy used to let the markup and depreciate from normal retail. I can punch above my weight class buying used. Need to do your research no short cut. Need to match components in system to get best results.   Need to find a person, most not in retail, to help put together your pieces. 

vinylvalet
897 posts
 

+1 Weiss DAC204

Weiss DAC204 Review

mbmi's avatar
mbmi
569 posts
 

I can wholeheartedly recommend the Audio Mirror Toubadour IV SE.....It's the most Musical DAC I've experienced under 10 K.......The Weiss DAC 204 and the T+A are both more than $3500 but are also excellent. I'd buy one of those 3 DACs. you can't go wrong !

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