Poor man's reference DAC


I am looking for a DAC in the $3000 range to match with my system. I am hoping for a reference DAC that I can later add a transport to once the funds are available. I know this price point is a little light for a reference DAC but it is what I can afford. I was going to buy the Birdland Odeon Ag with reclocker but once you open the door you start to find other items. I am interested in other views so I can start researching these DACs. The newest item I have read about is the Harmonix DAP-777. Very favorable reviews. Anything else out there that I should think about?

I have the following set-up:

Rowland Synergi IIi preamp
Rowland M201 mono amps
Meridian 588 CD player
CAL CL-10 multi disc player
B & W Nautalus 802 speakers
Audio Note Cerulean cables
Audio Magic power conditioners

I listen to vocalists mostly and accustic music. All reply are appreciated.
bryanhod

Showing 1 response by dpe

I just spent the last month listening to every DAC I could get my hands on. I finally went for the Audiomeca Enkianthus. It sounded so nice that the guy who was going to sell me his Accustic Arts transport rescinded after hearing the two together. I thought that the Audio Logic was excellent too, but maybe it was just a tad too laid back, or maybe soft is more definitive. The Reimyo Harmonix DAP-777 was sort of a surprise, which I may have jumped on if I could find a used one.

Like you I listen to acoustical music and voice; mostly acoustical guitar and piano and for those mid to high frequencies I liked the Enkianthus.

You might also check out the Lector DIGICODE as well. I wasn't able to find one in my area. I'm looking for the DIGIDRIVE transport now.