Whatever the DAC, try Qobuz - to my ears, it usually sounds better. Since your analog taste (e g Telefunken tubes) resembles mine, you might like the Teac NT-505. I do. But then again I don't expect digital to sound better than (good) analog.
Recommend me a DAC under 3k
Hi All,
Long time reader, first time poster!
I’m expanding my all-analog system to add a proper digital front end and would like recommendations for a DAC to connect to my Wiim pro plus.
Listening Habits:
I primarily listen to LPs, but appreciate the convenience and discoverability that digital provides. I don’t have a digital music library and only stream via Tidal and Spotify. My 2-channel system does double duty as a sound system for our TV as well.
Requirements:
- All-in <= $3k
- Prioritizes sound quality above all else
- Streaming supports Tidal Connect directly or via some other protocol
- TosLink Input (for casual TV)
Personal Preferences:
- When tuning components in my system, I’ve preferred ones that are more detailed/transparent rather than overly warm/harmonic. E.g. Telefunken over Amperex or Mullard. Duelund CAST over AN copper.
- Realistic tone/timbre, soundstage, micro-detail, and impactful bass are important to me.
Currently under consideration:
- Denafrips Pontus II 12th
- Denafrips Venus II
- Schiit Yggdrasil
- ANK DAC 4.1x (with Duelund caps, etc)
- Gustard R26
The rest of my system is as follows:
- CSS 2TD-x tower speakers (neutral with some mid-bass warmth)
- ANK EL34 35W Monoblocks
- ANK L5 Mentor Preamp
- ANK L3 Phono V2
- Mofi Ultradeck with Master Tracker cartridge
- Richard Gray 600RM Pro Power Conditioner
- ...
- 88 posts total
Buying used is a great way to to up your sound quality. A DAC has no moving parts so the risk is much lower. For your $3000 dolloars it would be hard to beat a used PSAudio DirectStream Dac $6000 new with the transformer upgrades. Currentlly AudioGon has the DAC listed for $2000 with the upgrade under $1000 https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lisb6450-ps-audio-directstream-dac-with-bridge-ii-da-converters https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/modding-the-ps-audio-directstream-dac-mk1-and-mk2 |
@jjss49 I just read through it. What a thorough comparison! Since you included the ANK 4.1 in your top 3, including direct output, I’m curious to hear how it stacked up to the Denafrips units. How did it handle micro detail and bass performance? I’m very familiar with Brian and the build process so have some preference toward his units. Do you think 18bits is a limitation over the other hi-res units? |
- 88 posts total