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How to proceed?

Removing my Aqua La Voce dac from my system has eliminated fatigue and reduced but not fully eliminated sibilance. Running my Jay’s CDT2MKIII into my Hegel H390’s onboard dac is definitely a more relaxed presentation but tonally leaner than I prefer. Some have suggested I swap out the Hegel, but first I’d like to try another dac.

What I’m unclear about is how to go about choosing another dac that will not duplicate the same drawbacks I’ve experienced with the Aqua. Are there details in the design or specs that can guide me in this regard?  I'm unsure how to proceed.

stuartk

Showing 1 response by vthokie83

vthokie83
655 posts
 

You never did answer the question on cost for a new DAC (or I missed it). I have found Denafrips DACs (specifically the Pontus II, Terminator II, and Terminator Plus), to be extremely musical and almost tube like; yet perfectly detailed. Denafrips DACs are also a perfect pairing with the Jay's transports, connect directly with a high quality I2S (HDMI) cable....and the I2S pin outs match.

They unfortunately do not have a demo policy. There is a used Terminator Plus 12th for $4,800 at US Audio Mart....with free shipping. That is a steal that I'd buy for myself if I had the funds ready.

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