While keeping the streamer and DAC makes a lot if sense, for synergy and financial purposes I went with a Cary Audio DMS650.
They are made in the US right here in Raleigh NC. I can only compare with my lackluster Bluesound Node, but there is absolutely no comparison. It was easily the most important addition to my system. The sonic upgrade was beyond night and day. Everything became huge, clear, powerful. I played the Made in Japan album so loud that my poor neighbor had to come a knocking. It was so clean and clear and powerful that I couldn’t turn it down. They sell direct to consumer and always run sales. In my case I got 25% off since I also purchased my amp from them. I think that the standard discount for one component is 15%. That makes the DMS650 around 4100. Or the upgraded DMS700 which uses FGPA technology at 5700. I was thinking able to find a negative review. They are also a company that issues upgrades rarely rather than trying to entice people every year or two with some minor tweaks and marketing hype.
My only other comparison is what I heard at an audio show this summer. To my ears, my 14k system sounds as good to me as any of the systems in the 20-30k range. They are known for a non fatiguing and natural sound. The system reveals differences in recordings of course, but nothing sounds terrible on this system. Not even the horrid AC/DC and Led Zep recordings. They have a 30 day trial period and they also have a DAC only option. They charge a 3% return fee unfortunately. Happy hunting.
DAC’s
Hello, curious on everyone’s thoughts. I’m still building my system. I came across a really good deal on a Meitner MA3 dac. It’s from an authorized dealer and they offered to sell me one NIB for 7k. I have read and read about dacs and I am getting tired. Haha. I really like the Denafrips Terminator 2, Holo and the lumin T3 being the cheapest of them all. Once I factor in a streamer I am already close or over the 7k. Also I don’t need a dac for anything other then just streaming. Thank you