2. digital
  3. 180625-106038

DACs that do well without a preamp

I am looking for a DAC to feed my DNA-1 gold power amp directly, streaming Qobuz or Tidal from a Bluesound Vault. Budget is $1-2K; would consider used, if worthwhile. Current contenders are Benchmark 3 HGC, Brooklyn DAC+, Gustard x26 pro, Holo Spring 3, Musetec 004 and Pontus ii. Looking for clean, detailed, uncolored sound that "lifts the veil". What are the qualities I should look for to drive an amp well, without a pre?
128x128cheeg

Showing 1 response by jbuhl

jbuhl's avatar
jbuhl
969 posts
 

I have a Wadia 321 with the ESS Sabre volume implementation.  It sounds very analytical vs running it through my Rogue with Mullard valves.   But I am a fan of hybrid setups (Tubes & SS). 

 

The Wadia 321 is a good DAC and can be had for around $1k but it has a sizable footprint.  Has a bunch of inputs (coax,digital,USB).   321di will process DSD.

Wadia gone now but 3rd party support does exist

More to discover