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External DAC?

Hey guys,

Here's my current setup:  Node 2i > Marantz PM KI Ruby > Dynaudio Special 40.

I am considering getting an external DAC and bypass the Node's DAC.   I have seen great reviews for the Topping D90 but the MQA only works via USB (node 2i doesn't have usb out).  Not that big of a concern because I can always use Qobuz HiRes instead and to be honest, I can't tell much of a difference on most tracks.

Anyway, is the Topping D90 a worthy upgrade to the node 2i?  Or should I spend more and go for the trusted Chord Qutest?  I will be stretching my budget with the Chord but I am to wait and save up if it is worth it.  Any other DACs in this price range?

Please advise! 
prashanth13485

Showing 6 responses by prashanth13485

prashanth13485 OP
51 posts
 
@ghjuvvani I understand that balanced will mean +6dbu to the ref level selected. Any idea why you chose to use volume on both instead of locking one? Any sonic benefits? 
prashanth13485 OP
51 posts
 
Thanks everyone for the inputs, I really appreciate it.  Based on your comments and subsequent research, I have ordered the RME ADI 2 and the Benchmark Dac3.  I'm going to keep one and return the other based on how to they sound to my ears.  

Which one would you keep if you had the choice?
prashanth13485 OP
51 posts
 
The Benchmark Dac 3 HGC arrived today. Boy, what an improvement over the node, simply blew it out of the waters.
Rme is arriving tomorrow. Can’t wait to compare the two. Will let you know which one I decide to keep. My wallet hopes that it will be the rme.. lol
prashanth13485 OP
51 posts
 
Alright, the RME arrived this morning. And after hours of A/B testing, I have decided to keep the RME and return the Benchmark. To my ears, the difference was marginal (Dac3 > Rme) and in ways I can’t even properly explain. Something about the Dac3 felt like the sound stage was wider. Perhaps even a best t more musical (probably just in my head coz I expect the Dac3 to be better given it’s price point).  Anyway, the Benchmark Dac 3 is a fine piece of equipment but I just couldn’t get myself to spend almost twice as much.  Thanks everyone for your inputs. Rme is a keeper and I’m very happy with it. Cheers!
prashanth13485 OP
51 posts
 
@jjss49 thank you so much. Quick question on volume settings on the RME. 
I’d like to use my Marantz to adjust volume. I see a couple of options in the RMe and wasn’t sure what should I go with.  I guess I’ll have to lock the volume and switch off auto ref level. But then what should I set as the reflevel and volume in the dac? I have it at +1 dbu and 0 dB volume. Any suggestions?
prashanth13485 OP
51 posts
 
@daleberlin you’re right, I went through that section but couldn’t figure out which ref level and volume should I go with. Looks like it depends on the output Volts of the amplifier. Any idea what’s the output V of my PM Ki ruby amp? I couldn’t find anything on marantz manual either. 
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