2. digital
  3. 173536-16123

DACs and more. Is there a good analog sounding DAC.

I own a Bluesound node 2i for a yr now. I was initially impressed with the sound. I stream Qobuz. My Belle's amp/Audio Illusion/Vandys system produces a very good cd quality with the Nodei. I not better SQ with Qobuz HR songs. I have to admit, the Node is a great streamer for its price, HOWEVER, it has its limitations, like a shallow soundstage and some instrument separation. Therefore, I am looking to improve my digital reproduction since I love the the benefits of streaming. It seems that the streaming/Dac market has proliferated. I have two options. Replace the Node or add an external DAC. My budget is < $2,000. I Iike to stay within that range. I hear there are a lot of DACs in that category like the Denafrips, Border Patrol, Gustard and many others. Same with streamers. One that was referred to me was the Auralic Altair g1. Most reviews talk about its construction but not the sound quality nor A vs. B comparisons.

My 2 questions to fellow members: what has been the best Added improvement you have experienced with adding and external DAC to the Node. OPTION #1

Can anyone share about the Aurlic Altair g1 and /other streamer under 2K. OPTION #2

thanks

lobinero

Showing 1 response by melm

melm
1,085 posts
 

With all respect, IMHO you may be asking the wrong question.  I have a pretty good analog system, but the last thing I want from it is to sound like what most people describe as an analog sound.  I want it to sound like music, the kind I hear when I listen to instruments free of loudspeaker enhancement.  There are many options that will do that job.

Of course, you may not agree, and it's your money.  People here have described their "analog" sounding DAC as giving "a relaxed presentation," "allows body relaxation,"  it "allows my body to relax" and even that it gives "the ability to go into a kind of meditative state."  Well, that's not what happens when I go to a concert.  My pulse usually goes up, not down.   But if that's what you want, you'll get many suggestions.

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