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Is there a DAC ranking list?

This is a follow up from my previous thread seeking more definition and presence in my music.  Among other ideas, I was advised to get a new DAC and several brands were tossed out from $100 to $1700+. The world of DAC’s is large, and I’m wondering if there’s a ranking list for them, similar to Crinicles list for earphones.  I especially like the value ratings on that list, such as “Redefines the price bracket.”

Here’s a recap of my scenario:

I listen to jazz at lower volumes on radio.garden.com via my Apple iPad pro

My room is big, 20ft by 40ft, no carpeting or drapes, with a corner LP triangle

Apple AirPort Express Wireless Router a1392 300Mbps

B & O BeoLab 8000 powered speakers, 10ft from the LP 

Hsu ULS15 Mk II 15in sealed sub imid-room

Paradigm Monitor Series 7 12in sealed sub mid-room via wireless transmitter

Monoprice cables 10ft and 25ft, 22awg, 3.5mm plugs to RCA connections 

I am sure there are many good and great DAC’s out there.  But are there some that punch above their price category?  I also don’t want to pay a premium for one that exceeds the quality capabilities of the rest of my system.

My music sounds “A++” with my Moondrop Blessing headphones, so listening to radio.garden.com on my iPad is giving me the quality of sound that I am seeking for my speakers.

Also, I don’t know if I need a DAC with a preamp or a streamer.  Thx for any ideas you might have that could help me.

tcotruvo

Showing 1 response by soix

soix
10,009 posts
 

Ranking lists are pretty useless as it comes down to what sound characteristics you like, not someone else’s list according to their own preferences that could well be different from yours.  

That said, given what your looking for take a look at the Musician Pegasus.  I have one and it’s really good at portraying tone and density but still has excellent detail up top.  Several reviewers use it as a reference if that means anything, and at $1100 I think it offers very good value for the sound quality it offers.  Here’s a review that coincides with my own impressions of the Pegasus’ sound characteristics.  Best of luck. 

https://soundnews.net/sources/dacs/musician-audio-pegasus-r2r-dac-review/

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