There is also the Gustard A26 which I thought was a better sounding DAC then the R26 yet still on the warm side.
Do you use Roon or what software are you using? That could have a bearing on the choice of streamers and streamer/dacs.
Gustard R26 vs hi end streamer
Hi,
I have in plan to upgrade the source of my system:
Source: Newtork streamer Marantz NA8005
Amp: Arcam A32
Speakers: build to me
Headhone: Denon AH-D5000
Actually the options are:
1) Purchase a DAC like Gustard R26 or X26 or Schiit OG Yggdrsail (I’am bit undecided to choose one of these DACs).
2) Replace my Newtork streamer with a Hi end Streamers like: Auralyc, Cocktail Audio, Rose or coming soon new Marantz that replace ND8006.
I have a preference for a sound relaxed, warm, analog, with a deep bass, I listen only FLAC files with USB disk and no others, so I’am not interested to streamer services.
My actual Marantz match my sound preference, but lack of details, soundstage, etc...
The ideal is upgrade the Newtork streamer, but for what I read on many forums, an exterenal DAC like Gustard R26 or Schiit OG Yggdrsail sound better of every integrated streamer like: Auralyc, Cocktail Audio, Rose, etc.. and apart this is also a cheap option.
To match my sound preference do you suggest to wait the next Marantz models or consider directly an external DAC like Gustard or Schiit ?