2. digital
  3. 177973-140760

Differences between models of expensive vs inexpensive DACs

For those who have tried many different DACs from very inexpensive to very expensive, do you find that the lower end DACs all sound similar in the same less than optimal way, or is it that the more expensive DACs all sound more similar in the correct way? In other words, are the better DACs starting to converge on the same good sound, or are they actually diverging more in their sonic presentation?  In recent times I've only worked with relatively inexpensive DACs and those all sound the same to me. 

asctim

Showing 1 response by willgolf

willgolf
933 posts
 

I have had a Lumin U-1 mini, D2, A1, and X1.   I can tell you each of these DAC's was a definite step up, especially the X1.  The D2 was so average sounding compared to the X-1.  The level of detail for each DAC was easily heard.


I then decided to go to an all-tube system and now have a Lampizator Pacific.  To be honest there was not a major step on in SQ between the Pacific and the X-1.  However, once I added a Lucas Audio Music Server, the SQ jumped 3-fold.  The advantage of the Pacific is that you can tube roll to change the sound.  That is a major benefit.  I have already ordered the Lampi Horizon and I have done A/B comparisons of the Pacific and Horizon.  Again, the level of detail is just accentuated.  

So IMO there is a major difference in the sound of DAC's as you go up the ladder.  

 

More to discover