New DAC with streamer


Hi I'm looking for a DAC to replace a modified PS Audio DirectStream MK1.

I currently use MConnect on a Samsung S20 phone to stream Qobuz.  The preamp is a Spectral DMC-30SV and the amps are Spectral DMA-400 monoblocs.  Speakers are EgglestonWorks Rosa.  

 

My choice for a new DAC is the Bricasti M21.  It has a built-in streamer for ethernet, and gives you the choice of playing music using a ladder dac, delta sigma dac or 1-bit DSD.

 

Let me know your thoughts, if you have any experience with Bricasti and if it is worth the price at about $16K.

   

bigby

Showing 2 responses by verdantaudio

If you like the PS Audio DSD, my customers usually move to one of three brands depending on budget.  Meitner MA3, Playback Designs or Bricasti.  The M1 has been a popular choice but the M21 is awesome in that it is an M1 S2 AND it has the R2R.

regarding the streamer card, this outperforms most streamers/DACs and does this because it is solidly made and is connected internally via I2S.  I2S is advantageous as it connects the clocks in a superior way and leads to better sound due to reduced jitter.  
 

the MA3 is a step up from the DSD as well and is modestly priced compared to Playback or Bricasti with a list at $10.5k.  The Playback MPD-6 is amazing but with card, is $18k.  
 

full disclosure. I am a dealer for all three brands but have personally owned the DSD, had multiple DSDs in on trade for direct compare.

Regarding other recos in this thread that I have owned and spent time with, as wonderful as the Weiss 501/502 is, the unit is a bit brighter than what you are used to.  The Weiss Helios is smoother sounding but is a big step up in price to $22k.  I find dCS and Lumin also to be noticeably brighter than what you are used to.  
 

I just hooked up the Esoteric N-01XD a few minutes ago and I have not put it through its paces yet but reminds me of the Weiss Helios tonally.  It is neutral and pleasant sounding. I only listened to a few tracks but this might be a good fit as well.  

@deep_333 I am unfamiliar with Denafrips, Shiit or Bricastis’s P&L.  I do not know their margins, expenses or cost structures beyond the prices they charge me.  You are correct that many consumer direct companies and Chinese manufacturers offer less expensive products due to the elimination of dealer margin, cheap labor, Chinese sourced parts, and other lower costs.   
 

Obviously, you have your POV on what Bricasti delivers in terms of value and you do not feel the price is justified.  Others have a different POV and experience and feel it is a great product.  I certainly have had very positive experiences with their products as a retailer and consumer.  I disagree with you but your opinion is certainly valid as it reflects your experience.  I would hope that you extend the same courtesy to me and to others fans of Bricasti Designs.  Not saying you haven’t, merely saying I hope you do.