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 sonicjoy

sonicjoy
146 posts
 
Hi Loganfan. I think the Sonos is the weak link in your chain. Oppos are known for their very good DAC’s and are audiophile grade components where as the Sonos Connect is a mass market consumer grade product and are not known for High fidelity sound. "Wyred 4 Sound" sells a modified Sonos Connect that sounds much better than the stock version but there are newer and better "audiophile" products that you should look at. I’m sure you will get many good suggestions here soon.

I think you would have to spend more than $1000. on an out board DAC to much improve on the OPPO. Also don’t be afraid to shop used for a DAC. Digital is evolving very rapidly and this is very good for used prices of older gear.
I can recommend the Wyred 4 Sound DAC2 Very solid full featured DAC. It’s a few years old now but sold new for $1500. and sells for $500. - $600. used. Several are available currently. Check the reviews. They are up gradable to newer versions as well including current top of the line. Excellent value! http://https//wyred4sound.com/products/digital-converters/dac-2v2-series

Good luck.
sonicjoy
146 posts
 
Whats the need for a streamer? Yes exactly, I use Tidal and Youtube music app and find its the best way to discover and try new music. Some say streaming will never be as good as physical media, I say it is close enough (with a good streamer.) I enjoy it very much. (I use a TT and CD’s also) There seams to be a new trend developing. Music that is not put on physical media at all, so streaming or purchasing a download is the only option. It probably is where things are headed.


Personally I am with gadios and saving for an Innuos Zenith Mk3 streamer.
More to discover