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DAC Under $3000

I am considering the purchase of a new DAC. Budget is no more than $3000. I lean towards clear, detailed sound with good separation. In the past I have had PS Audio Stellar, Benchmark, and Merason Frerot. I thought all were good, but not necessarily "special". Suggestions please. Thanks!

gnoworyta
invalid
1,186 posts
 

I would recommend a space tech Lab dac with a super rectifier. I have a space tech Lab dac and there is no hum with or without a preamp. If you go to Canuck audiomart you can read all the user reviews describing just what you are after.

hilde45's avatar
hilde45
4,974 posts
 

Buy used.

jengelmann's avatar
jengelmann
58 posts
 

@hilde45  +1

spenav
424 posts
 

@gnoworyta 

Check this one out. Fits your budget and your taste:

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649991133-nuprime-evolution-dac-silver/

bondmanp
1,810 posts
 

I resisted Chi-Fi as long as possible, but for under $2k, nothing I have heard beats my Denafrips Pontus II with 1.4 firmware.  It's a virtual Swiss Army knife of a DAC that is clean, clear, and never harsh or brittle.  Sound stage is highly source dependant.  Probably my last DAC.

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