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New DAC, what should I look for?

I currently have a PSA DirectStream Mk1 (modified with APS output transformers and external power supply). Nothing wrong with it at all, but it's the oldest components I have and I'm thinking I may want to try something different. Budget is  ~5k used

 

The sound profile that I'm looking for is smooth and spacious. Yes, details are nice, but I can compromise somewhat on that to gain smoothness and spaciousness.

 

The rest of my system consists of PureAudioProject Trio15Classic driven by MasterSound Compact 845. Streamer is Holo Audio Red and Small Green Computer i7 is taking care of the Roon/HQPlayer duties. All cables are Silversmith

audiojan
steakster
1,997 posts
 

OP:  The sound profile that I’m looking for is smooth and spacious.

Have you seriously tweaked the upstream components first, the modem & router?  With: LPS’s - digital filters - quality ethernet cabling - power conditioning?   

bassbuyer
415 posts
 

Agree with a Holo Audio DAC to match your Red streamer.  I love the sound of my Cyan 2.  Their May DAC is top of the line and you should be able to find a used one for under 5K.  

zlone
850 posts
 

I think the Holo DAC recommendation is a good one from what I hear of their DAC’s. I use a Merason Reuss which fits your desired sound signature, worth a look.

audiojan's avatar
audiojan OP
447 posts
 

@steakster The router is a Silent Angel Bonn with a dedicated power supply (HDPlex). All ethernet cables are AudioQuest. Power conditioning is done by PSA PowerPlant 12.

audiojan's avatar
audiojan OP
447 posts
 

Regarding Holo Audio Dac's... I listened to the May KTE and although nice, it wasn't much of an improvement from my modded PSA DirectStream; different yes, but not necessarily better in all regards.

 

@soix I'm not sure about the Mojo... PCM only and no DSD support. Maybe I'm overthinking it, but I see that as a limitation. Same goes for the LTA. I'm working on arranging a borrow of a Terminator 15.

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