Quest for an external Dac has resulted in me way down the rabbit hole


Hi audio wizards!  I’ve read several articles and reviews about the benefits of a good quality external DAC, and the potential for “real” improvements in musical quality in a current system. I do believe my system might be in line .  I currently have a Rotel 955 CD player I like, a nodeii and a Creek evo 100 integrated amp.  The Ohm 1000 speakers sound a little lean in the top end although I do like them overall.  At this point I’ve been looking for a Dac that would bring a little more “spring and liven up my system”.  However, the more I research, the more confused I get.  I’ve been to a couple higher end stereo stores and I seem to just get the “party line”.  I live in Denver Colorado, and although I like the PS Audio line I can’t afford them.  If any one has any advice for me on a good quality external     
Dac model for under $1000 (new or used) I could sure use the help! Thank you

 

128x128dbwinters

Showing 5 responses by dbwinters

I heard that in one review, I  wish there were ways to load them up, take a few home and compare them.  Unfortunately can’t do that here.

 

I agree about the Denafrips by review onlly, I haven’t found one to listen to.  I heard that there is someone that services them on the east coast.  I have not been able to listen to any at stores, let alone compare them.  It’s basically this is what we carry take it or leave it.  I do like the ohms, I can move around or have people sitting in different parts of the room and sound is the same.  I also have a pair of Thiel 1.2,s that I also like but the sweet spot is small, thus the choice of the ohms.

 

thank you for your time and thoughts, the denafrps sounds like the plain!

 

I haven't been to Soundings yet, I liked them but wasn't sure if they were focused on home installs now (that's what I heard