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Is low cost DAC worth it?

Been learning a lot from you fine folks... thanks!

I am driving Boston Acoustic Lynnfield 975 speakers with a Willsenton R8 amp (recent purchase to try it out) and streaming over wifi through Apple Airport Express. It sounds pretty good but I find myself wondering if adding a low cost DAC would improve the sound any?

Maybe something like the Cambridge DacMagic 100 or 200M?

My hearing is not that great anymore, so I don’t think it makes sense to jump on a DAC costing thousands, but I understand the Airport Express is a decent DAC, so not sure if a low cost one would make any difference?

 

tbick

Showing 2 responses by elliottbnewcombjr

elliottbnewcombjr
5,200 posts
 

I would buy a low cost one from Amazon (or other easy return site), keep or return it.

IF it improves things, then perhaps do research on the next step up, no rush.

btw, Amazon has ’free returns’, no return shipping costs.

..........................

In my case, real lofi, I was using the PC headphone adapter, rca cable to line in. Advised here to use USB out, to DAC to line in, I bought an inexpensive DAC,

Topping D10s Mini USB DAC, $110.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08F54TT79/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1

it made an obvious difference including increased signal strength/volume.

elliottbnewcombjr
5,200 posts
 

Scrolling thru, seeing the Names of these gizmos, I detect a need for obscurity.

More to discover