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Next best exponential DAC quality level?

I recently did a shoot out of three DACs using my Hint6 + routing each of the other DACs to analog input on the Hint6:

(1) Hint6: ESS Sabre32 -- Integrated 

(2) SMSL M500: ES9038PRO D/A   ~$400 

(3) Khadas ToneBoard(v1): ESS ES9038Q2M - ~$99

I played the same song passages on Amazon Music and was able to cycle through each Hint6 input corresponding to each DAC.

The result?  Very small difference in terms of rendering.  Maybe a more open sound stage with better overall balance using the Hint6 DAC.  The Khadas was more bass / midrange pronounced w/ a more narrow soundstage.  However, I wouldn't suggest that any were head-and-shoulders "better" over the others.  In fact, they were all pretty decent with only small nuances (certainly not worth the price differences.   

I decided to keep the Khadas for my small headphone listening area. 

But it got me thinking - how much would one have to spend to realize an exponential difference in quality?  Is the Khadas that good, or is DAC technology differences more nuanced than I originally thought (meaning, we're paying 10x for only 5% better).  

 

martinman

Showing 3 responses by ghasley

ghasley
2,533 posts
 

Heck, I'm jealous of the guy...he and the OP have apparently found musical bliss for $100! I would give $100 if I could find musical bliss for $100 LOL.

 

When people think its about the chip and then brace themselves to vigorously defend their position like a jr high debate team alternate, I tend to just carry on. I will probably wish I did just that.

ghasley
2,533 posts
 

I hear you…ill just lurk, post when the mood strikes, make fun of the absurd from time to time and generally expercise moderation in all I am able lol.

ghasley
2,533 posts
 

Would it be unfair to equate the ASR meausrement crowd with Covid? Some people love that it exists and enjoy talking about it while others get mad at its very existence. Me, it doesnt much matter to me…I am vaccinated against Amir’s dastardly measurements.

 

Seriouslt though, if someone is certain their $50 dac is better than your $xx dac, who cares. They are happy, you are happy, life is good.

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