2. digital
  3. 175130-170859

Is a cheaper DAC + Reclocker better than just an expensive DAC?

Hi All,

I'm still in my DAC dilemma phase, and have come across this situation, is a cheaper DAC + Reclocker better than just an expensive DAC?  The basis for this is the below Gustard example.  Also, i've read a review that commented on the X26 being further improved when a reclocker was added.

Gustard U18 reclocker ($635 CAD) + Gustard X18 ($952 CAD) = $1,587 CAD

OR

Gustard X26 = $1,907 CAD

 

So if i wanted to:

- have a mind-blowing DAC experience (stepping up from my Khadas Tone Board DAC)

-not have any regrets

- extinguish any upgrade fever

- make girls like me...

 

...is it a general rule that a DAC+reclocker will ususally sound better than a standalone more expensive DAC, and so i should pursue this route?

Does anyone have any amazing examples of cheaper DACs, that when coupled with a reclocker, elevate the combo into the really acoustically high-end and detailed areas of the hobby?

 

128x128fai_v

Showing 2 responses by thyname

thyname's avatar
thyname
3,107 posts
 

Buy the best DAC you can afford. If you still have the itch later on, you can try a reclocker down the road.

 

IMO, you can improve the streaming quality immensely by ditching a general purpose Windows laptop as a streamer. Plenty of good dedicated streamers out there, many very affordable too

thyname's avatar
thyname
3,107 posts
 

Jerry @carlsbad but….. you can certainly find top quality streamers built in top quality DACs.

I took a look at the OP’s system. You are right. Laptop can do fine for the time being. I am not familiar with those speakers and the amp at all, so take this with a grain of salt, by my guess is bigger improvements can be accomplished with stuff other than streamer. Dedicated streamer can wait

More to discover