2. digital
  3. 151100-86355

Separate DAC or continue using the Oppo UDP-205

Hello,

  I have all my music on a hard drive in FLAC.
I am a using Sonos Connect, Optically connected to the Oppo. From the Oppo (RCA'S out) to a Primaluna Dialogue     Preamp. The Amps are 2 Primaluna HP's. Martin Logan Theos speakers. I have rolled mostly all the tubes, and absolutely love the sound. Family and friends also love the sound.

 My question is, Should I continue going through the Oppo, or should I get a separate DAC? Nothing to crazy in price.
I have seen these things go for thousands, and thats fine if you can swing it. I was thinking around a $1000.
But, would it change the sound or would it pretty much be the same? In other words, is the Oppo that good at what it does?

 Since we are always tweaking our systems to make them sound better, I thought I would ask all of you first, before calling the salesman. I also have thought about  getting a turntable. But I gave away all my albums many years ago.
Buying a turntable, buying albums, taking care of all that stuff. Not really what I had in mind. I would like to keep it fun, and simple.

  Thanks
loganfan

Showing 2 responses by gormdane

gormdane
35 posts
 
Hi Loganfan,
i would agree with Sonicjoy that probably your Sonos is the weak link - have you considered streaming directly to the Oppo using Roon or from laptop via USB?  Having said that I own a UDP-205 and for some was using it as my main transport/audio-video streamer/Roon device.  The DAC is quite good and sounds especially good when output via the balanced outputs providing audiophile level sound.  If you want to go for a separate DAC you would probably have to go above what you payed for the Oppo unit itself (something from Chord or Mytek might be good options closer to your budget).  I recently upgraded to a PS Audio Directstream DAC (with network Bridge) and was extremely pleased.  They also offer a 30-day trial (and full value trade-in option for used equipment).  Good luck in your audio pursuits!
Regards,
Gorm
gormdane
35 posts
 
I have all my digital media backed up to a NAS.  If I’m not actually playing CDs (my preference), I stream from my NAS (particularly when I travel or am too damn lazy to get up from the couch) and Qobuz (mainly to try new stuff).  I would find a dealer that lets you try inew gear out (even for a modest fee).  Going by way of the used one market might also get you some great equipment as well (i.e. a DAC).  Hope you strike gold!
More to discover