Is it possible to find a good DAC for under $50, 000?


Apparently, the good folks at The Absolute Sound have you covered.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nItR8Z6CCWE

(Audiophiles are never going to shed their out of touch reputation with journalism like this. I'm sorry, but it's just so tone deaf.)

hilde45

No, it not possible. If you don't spend at least $100k for a DAC, there is always a chance someone else may waste more money than you on a DAC, and therefore believes his is better than yours. 

Plus, you already spent $10k for a few feet of cable, now you start skimping on a DAC? Whats next, a power outlet for under $1k? What has the world (of HiFi) come to? Just the THOUGHT alone makes me shiver.  https://drive.google.com/file/d/1mGg64yHW69obBSKnhwWmUHCUJoUxzbNP/view?usp=sharing

Facts as I know things;

1) people value things differently,

2) people spend on things they value and can afford, and

3) people satisfy base level needs (food) before higher level stuff (stereo)

Finally I just bought a new DAC in the MSB line.  It sounds better than my older and less expensive DAC from their line. Yes there are diminishing returns. Most non audiophile  people think we're nuts.

@skinzy - Well said, I agree.
You must have been happy with the sound of MSB to upgrade within the line.  I just purchased a new DAC also and MSB was on my very short list. Ergonomically, their Premier DAC would have worked out very nice for me. Maybe someday.

BTW, very nice room you have. I really like the built-ins, quarter sawn oak molding and drawers, and hammered pulls.  It looks like a great place to listen with a fire on a winter day!

 

Just for fun....

Facts as I know things:

1) people value things differently; sometimes, they think they are valuing something based on a what they would consider a good reason, and sometimes they fool themselves. This often leads to them chasing their own tail, wasting money (which they may not be intending to do), and avoiding improving other aspects of their system that would lead to sonic improvements that they desire.

2) people spend on things they value and can afford but sometimes they waste their money on things they think they value but are wrong about it. If I buy a beautiful car because I value how it looks, but it breaks down once a week, I have made a mistake.

3) people satisfy base level needs (food) before higher level stuff (stereo) – probably good to check with people who have gotten divorced over audio.