Admittedly, I have not been keeping up with the info on the proposed TSS DAC from PS Audio and do not know if the $25K will be the release price. As I recall, this is to be a 2-box unit with one for digital and the other for analog. Ted Smith is a very bright guy and I believe the end result will be impressive. I suspect there will be trickle down improvements to their less expensive unit designed to replace the current DirectStream DAC, which has had a long run. I also believe they are designing for future enhancements in what the unit will do with long term life cycle.
Now, that being said, there are a number of very high performing DACs now available for significantly less money new. Audio gear suffers from significant depreciation. That can be a real downer for original owners who look to sell and potentially a boon to buyers for preowned.
We can bet there will be lots of professional reviews, some just regurgitating specs and marketing, but there are also some really good reviewers who go further in depth and compare with other similar and less priced units.
I suggest it is premature to crown or demonize the TSS. Some will never buy it due to its expense or out of choice, but let's see how it stacks up in value and performance once it is out.
Now, that being said, there are a number of very high performing DACs now available for significantly less money new. Audio gear suffers from significant depreciation. That can be a real downer for original owners who look to sell and potentially a boon to buyers for preowned.
We can bet there will be lots of professional reviews, some just regurgitating specs and marketing, but there are also some really good reviewers who go further in depth and compare with other similar and less priced units.
I suggest it is premature to crown or demonize the TSS. Some will never buy it due to its expense or out of choice, but let's see how it stacks up in value and performance once it is out.