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PS Audio DAC II or Bryston: two great machines

I have decided that it's time to move up from my Rega DAC, and I am considering the above two machines. I know, I know, the solution is to listen to them myself and decide on my taste, but I don't have the option to do that. Both DACs have received rave reviews, though the retail price of the PS Audio is (was) almost twice that of the new Bryston BDA-2. The PS Audio II is now being replaced by the DirectStream, so there are many good deals on the discontinued II.

Anyone have any thoughts on how these compare? Both are described as being supremely musical. Can one argue that the PS Audio is twice as musical, given that it is (was) twice as expensive? :)

My amp is a Cary integrated. I have heard Bryston gear only once or twice in the past. To the extent that Bryston may have a house sound, my gut tells me that the Bryston DAC would not be a good match with Cary. In another thread, a person described the PS Audio as somewhat akin to the Cary 300B. On the one hand that is encouraging, on the other hand it may mean too much Cary.

Any thoughts? I'm also considering the new McIntosh D100. That looks sweet.
rfprice

Showing 3 responses by rfprice

rfprice OP
150 posts
 
Neal, are you saying that you swapped the MkII for the DSD? If so, how do you like the DSD?
rfprice OP
150 posts
 
Hi Goldprint,

Honestly I didn't even know Cary had new DACs. I can't find much written about them and there are no dealers in my neighborhood. Both seem to be just over my price range though. Actually one reason why I am attracted to the PSA is because right now it's deeply discounted and I'm a sucker for a bargain. Even though the original MSRP may be just a fake-out, I can fool myself that I'm getting an extra sweet machine. :)
rfprice OP
150 posts
 
Well, I went with the PWD II. At first I was not blown away, but I have to say that it's growing on me. The USB is definitely superior, using Amarra from my Macbook. And I'm also using my CDP via coax. Although USB is clearly superior to coax, I have a problem of two-dimensionality when playing computer audio. I had this same problem with my Rega DAC. I can't find the cause. Furthermore, on both connections, I think the machine sounds a little bright. Has anyone played with the firmware? Mine has the latest, 2.4.3.
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