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Do you recall "instant improvement" from your first stand-alone DAC ?

After weeks of research I recently ordered my first external DAC.  My system is modest by most accounts... Van Alstine SET400 amp, T-10 tube pre-amp, Salk HT2-TL speakers, WiiM Ultra streamer/DAC.  It sounds very good to me... resolving, clear, excellent bass, mids, highs. Then I started reading and asking about streamers and DACs and it seems my system could sound better. So I did a lot of reading and ultimately ordered a used Merason Frerot with factory wal wort power supply.  Now the anxiety of second-guessing my choice and what it will sound like in my system.  Cuz there are no stores near me to demo DACS.  Eventually I will likely upgrade the streamer.

 

What did you notice the most about your first stand-alone DAC... more clarity, richness, scary good vocals, extended highs, more airy highs, more and better bass ?  Better soundstage and imaging ? All the above ? 

foamcutter

Showing 1 response by sudnh

sudnh
127 posts
 

My experience had been utter disappointment with standalone DACs until getting the Chord Qutest in 2018. 
 

then after trying multiple other standalone DACs I settled for the Soekris 1421 DAC as the best sounding in the under $2k DAC category. 
 

Finally found a DAC (the Soekris 1421) that with modern digital recordings sounded pleasing. This on my analogue optimized setup with a VPI classic turntable with linear tracking tone arm and dynavector cartridge. 

Finally!!

Post 2015 DACs and digital recordings are pleasing to listen to. 
 

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