Some DACs I am Considering-Any thoughts?

All this statement speaks to is what this poster hasn't heard@jjss49

This is so true; been there, done that myself.

And is why I question the logic of buying inexpensive DACS because the technology is changing so rapidly.

My Theta DS ProBasic III is a very good DAC and it is what, 20 plus years old?  I also bought a new Soekris single ended. Different strokes, depending on your musical tastes and the rest of your gear. 

I listen to new equipment regularly at a couple of hi end stores in the Indy area.

Just because it is the latest technology does not mean that it is the best sounding. 

Thanks for listening,

Dsper

This thread is 10 months old now so rereading later posts today was interesting.

Particularly the Cetla comparison of Pontus 2 to MDHT Orchid.

I bought the AM Tubadour and did a reclocking upgrade since.

I still love it for the $2k I have spent. Not sure if the friend with

the AN 4.1x kit will sell or not so waiting for his decision.

I heard a system last week with the Gustard DAC for the first time

and the system was great. How much of a role the DAC played

is hard to know. The owner is a value guy who never overspends

making me think it is likely pretty good as per previous comment.

I agree with many statements above about buying an established name

known for solid builds. I broke with that for Audio Mirror after hearing Vlad's

story. Had to support him and am happy I have done so. Nice to be able to

pick up the phone and talk to the owner/designer/builder too.

This seems like a very educated list.  What did you end up buying and do you still have it?  I have a Pagoda single ended with Ericcson tube which has a lovely warmth,  good soundstage and separation.  Sometimes I feel like I'm missing some sparkle on the top end, like the resolution is a limiting factor.  I'm really considering trying a Pontus II.

The Holo Audio Spring DAC is the best dac I have ever had in any of my systems.  I have owned north of 20 over the years.  

I’ve owned three of the dacs on the list.

pagoda with mods

Lampizator level 4 Gen 5(not the same but close)

And now the Pontus II

My take is that the Pontus easily beats the Lampi with an easier flow to the music, where the Lampi seemed forced at times. The tone and timbre of the Pontus is more natural and richer.

The Pontus and the Pagoda are closer in terms of tone and engagement. Where the Pontus pulls ahead for me is in bass definition and inner detail.  And the Pontus only has about 30 hours of playing time so far.

So the Denafrips Pontus II wins the day for me. I’m wishing now I had went straight to the Venus II, that may happen sooner than later.

Oz