F-XLR to M-RCA recommendations

Or adapters like this.     I prefer them over Cardas.

@tyray

For XLR/RCA adapters, I own both this Purist set and this Cardas set.   I experimented for about a month of alternating the two sets – allowing time for each to settle-in.  The Purist adapter was more neutral, more solving.  The Cardas adapter was more warm, less resolving.   This was in my system.  YMMV.

Of course, cost/performance ratio is subjective.  The Cardas set was around $140 per pair.  The Purist set was $300 per pair.    Worth it to me for better SQ.    But I did not compare the Purist to this other more expensive Cardas set.  They weren’t around when I did the comparison.   

IME, avoiding adapters is the best approach.

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Also, I tried these much cheaper Neutrik XLR/RCA adapters.  They affected the SQ very poorly – way less resolving, almost muted.  They took the timbre and sparkle away.   I took one apart.  The internal connecting wires were ridiculously thin and very low quality.

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052rc is on target.   When using an XLR/RCA adapter, confirm that the pin configuration is correct for your particular unit.

@tyray

Not to mention that sometimes in audio, some things come around and turn out to be giant killers, for their lesser price.

For a component as important as a DAC, take your time in deciding. Generally speaking, the best giant-killer opportunities are with pre-owned gear - not low MSRP prices. Low MSRP prices means they’re cutting corners from the get-go.

Much depends on how your future DAC will be used. A desktop computer set-up - or a 2 channel audiophile system - or a home theater.

Currently, it’s a buyer’s market for used audio equipment.* Just submit an offer that you’re comfortable with. A new DAC doesn’t necessarily mean better SQ. My DAC is 10 years old and sounds amazing.

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* When buying used, carefully read the sellers’ feedback about how well previous sales were packaged to prevent damage in shipping.