Your CD player (NAD C538) uses a Wolfson WM8740 DAC chip. As far as I know (internet reviews), this is a high quality chip, so to get a discernible upgrade in SQ, you might want to consider R2R DACs such as Denafrips, Holo Audio. First try to do an audition and let your ears decide!
Should I buy a seperate dac?
I have the NAD C538 cd player and trying to figure out if an outboard dac would improve things. Looking at the Schiit Bitfrost 2 as an option. Your thoughts are much appreciated!
Showing 2 responses by hboden
Last year, I purchased a DAC (Chord Qutest), and it has been the biggest upgrade to SQ in my system. I often listen to streamed music, and this is where I noticed a big improvement. I did not see much improvement in CDs, though. My CD player is a Wadia 302, and I tried running it to the Qutest but didn't hear an improvement. Nevertheless, you will not regret getting a good DAC. I haven't heard the bifrost, but I would recommend the modi 3+ or modius over the bifrost. For one, the bifrost didn't get a positive recommendation from ASR (https://www.audiosciencereview.com). I have a modi 3+ in my second system and it's a fantastic DAC for the price. |