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DAC suggestions for a reasonably modest system

I have two systems currently fed by a SMSL SU-9n via Y splitter.  It's time to add a new/used DAC and get rid of the Y splitter.  New DAC will feed a VTL TL-2.5 + VTL Stereo 90 or a couple of different vintage SS amps (Sony TAN-8250 or Luxman 5M21), and just for fun, maybe a couple of Dyna Mk VI, running Magnepan 3.6R.  The SMSL does a great job overall, but seems to be a better fit with the ARC SP3a1 + SET or SEP amp into Altecs.  For those of you that have had the SMSL or similar level DACs in a similar system to mine and have moved up the chain, what gave you a nice step change?  The Maggies, however imperfect, are delightfully revealing and prior DAC changes were definitely more apparent with them.  Budget is $1000-1500, and I have no issue with buying used good quality stuff.  None of my system is less than 20 years old except the DACs.  

pickindoug

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audioman58
3,878 posts
 

Come up with $1900 ,without question the Denafrips Pontus 2 12th anniversary 

it is a excellent dac and I don’t own  but did ,I bought their terminator 2 ,

for a great price ,No dac especially a R2R dac is this musical for under $2k 

I have heard many I think it is the best dac under $3k,it’s that  good 

just read a bunch of reviews. It also has U.S service centers if need be .I have owned 4,of them ,my wife still has a older pontus 2 and never an issue.

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