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Streamer/dac …. Organic/euphonic sound signature

Hi guys.

Not new to the hobby but been away for many years - out of touch! Also developed nasty tinnitus while I was away.
No more critical listening for me…just background music. Still an audiophile at heart so good sound is still important.
Need recommendations for streamer/dac combo (keeping it simple) that’s organic and euphonic (coloured!) sounding. Rounded and full bodied weighty sound. Definitely on the very warm side of neutral. Dark? Excessive and thin/sharp high frequencies esp female vocal sibilance will set my ears off. :(

Budget $2.5 to $5k.

Thanks for your help.

 

 

ficus12346
kennyc
1,472 posts
 

......set my ears off. Esp female vocal sibilance.

@ficus12346

Is this the main reason you want a warm streamer DAC? Perhaps you should look at the other components further down your audio chain like electronics and speakers

ficus12346 OP
4 posts
 

@kennyc …. Yes… have been advised to look at speakers first. Made up my mind to change that first. Still need a warm streamer/dac combo. 

Thank you everyone for all the advice and recommendations 😊😊😊
 

cal3713's avatar
cal3713
1,421 posts
 

Personally, I'm not super attracted to warmth as a descriptor.  I think choosing based on natural tonality & realism (vs. high-fi and analytical) gets me there without as many distractions.  

bradleybgordon
3 posts
 

Gustard R26 streamer/dac is one of the great bangs for buck out there.  One of best ever upgrades to my system after 5+ prior dacs.  Vast soundstage, lots of air, top to bottom transparency, and absolutely no SS etch/glare.  All for ~$1600.

bluethinker's avatar
bluethinker
177 posts
 

I own the Innuous streamer as well as the Gold Note DS-10 streamer/Dac with the external power supply offered by Gold Note. For what you are looking for, I strongly recommend the Gold Note DS-10. It’s an interesting piece, as it allows you to change sound settings to your liking. In its default setting, I’ve found it to be warm and somewhat lush. It’s in your budget range, as well. 
 

Aside from some issues with the mobile app that I’m working through, I’ve been super impressed with the unit. Frankly, I love its sound because of its warm and somewhat dark tone. It’s the opposite of bright sounding. It’s also very visually appealing. Highly recommended. 

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