What's the point with a ranking List? "punch above their price category? " Most of the choices, recommendations from just about any corner of the market are subjective. Some reviewers go cheap and cheerful and don't believe in pricey models and the same goes for reviewers who are only interested in the best sound, screw price. And of course the great middle ground. Don't make a choice by what you hear on YOUTUBE! It's fraught with so many reasons why that's not the best way to go that I think are obvious and self explanatory. Maybe the biggest reason is that some reviewers are much better at demonstrations than others, kind of like the brightest, most vivid tv set on the floor. I always find a good starting point with many things is to find someone whose taste sinks up with yours, and build relationships where you can. Then go and listen, taste, touch, and lock eyes with whatever you can.
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.