Seeking Advice on NOS DAC


Looking to purchase an NOS DAC, budget is $1500.
Currently available for sale are:

- Metrum Acoustics Hex digital converter  (used)
- Metrum Acoustics Amethyst DAC       (new)
- Acoustic Plan Digimaster Tube DAC     (used)
This is a German-built NOS, 24-bit R-2R resistor ladder network, PCM1704U-K converter with 4 tube EC 86 triode outputs.
- HOLO Audio Spring DAC – LEVEL 2    (new, but over my budget of $1500)

My primary listening is via the PS Audio PWT, while music files on my Mac are steadily increasing. I’m thinking NOS due to my large collection of Redbook CD's.

So, any experience or comments on which way to proceed is appreciated.

128x128lowrider57

Showing 1 response by boxer12

I don't have a lot of experience with DAC's but recently purchased an audio alchemy DDP-1 with the optional power supply. It's exceptional with redbooks, which is about all I own. The preamp section itself is also very good (it replaced a Melos 222 & betters it in every way) & has analog inputs. Audio Advisor is selling these currently for $1500. If you have time, check out the review from absolute sound.