2. digital
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Higher End DACs

I am looking for a DAC (potentially streamer&DAC) to be paired in a mcintosh system (c1100/611). Its my first foray into digital streaming and I have no need for a CD player.

I see a lot of love for Esoteric, however, most seems to be around their transports? Are they not as renowned for pure digital streaming and/or standalone DACs? I see DCS (for instance) often referenced for standalone DACs - how does Esoteric compare?
ufguy73

Showing 3 responses by zprr

zprr
306 posts
 
Difficult to overstate the improvement in sound quality of the Extreme - as a server or streamer. I debated for awhile whether to invest in a higher end DAC or the Extreme with my current ‘mid priced’ DAC. I am glad I went with the latter. Most significant component upgrade I have experienced. 
zprr
306 posts
 
+1 @mikelavigne re: Extreme
zprr
306 posts
 
ufguy73 thanks for starting this really interesting thread
I believe two pages ago you were thinking in the $15k range for DAC, if still so, have you considered the Simaudio 780d v2?  It handles virtually all formats including MQA and does have a streamer built in to get up and running and bypass if you like (it is really 90% DAC). Not sure compatibility with Mac but there is a dealer in the bay area that carries both lines.  
Anyway, thanks for sharing your journey with us.

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