DAC Recommendations Please


Greetings everyone,
Currently choosing a DAC for a 2-channel system in my study to be used with a pair of Totem Arros. Current source is my PC.

I am considering the following:

PS Audio Digital Labs III ($695)
Cambridge Audio Dac Magic ($399)
Bel Canto II Used ($672)

The Cambridge piece seems to be a great value and well reviewed, but it is not discussed very often in these forums. Does it hold it's own compared to the other two choices?

I probably lean towards warmth and deep soundstage, but I don't want mushy/muddy and I do appreciate details. Seems the Bel Canto is often suggested when folks are looking for a nice warm sound?

Thanks in advance for your thoughts.
headshrinker2

Showing 1 response by drtmth58

I believe the PS Audio Digital Link III is no longer being manufactured, and has now been replaced with a new product.
Best to check the PS Audio site for complete and updated information. The DACMagic -- which is frequently sold-out and/or back-ordered -- is excellent by any standard. I own one and for the money it can not be beat and -- for that matter -- will probably outperform many higher priced units. It does have certain specific advantages: (a) both RCA and true balanced outputs for connection to your pre-amp or amplifier; (b) two separate digital inputs with both having coax and toslink capabilities. Rather unusually these days, it comes with a useful and professional appearing owners manual; and the overall packaging -- as is the case with most Cambridge products -- is first-rate.