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!

128x128wentz

Not sure if you can still find them, but the Parasound ZDac was an absolutely great sounding DAC for peanuts.   If you are dac-curious, a unit like that would not set you back too far.

@erik_squires & @wentz: looks like ebay has lots of them.  Mine has been going strong since they were first introduced.   Agree, great little DAC. 

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. 

Agree with buying and trying and returning if you don’t notice a difference.  It’s a fun part of this hobby IMO. 

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