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The Ultimate DAC for Approx $10,000

Hi There,

Over here in Australia, it's almost impossible to go and evaluate high quality DACS.

Therefore, I'm seeking advice from fellow Audiogoners for help with a new potential purchase.

Currently, here is my short list:

Audio Aero La Fontaine DAC
Meitner MA-1
dCS Debussy
Playback Designs MPD-3
AMR DP-777

I currently have an old 10 year old Audio Aero Capitole MKII which has served me well, but is showing it's age in terms of absolute detail, Bass tightness. Midrange is still excellent, coupled to a Supratek Cabernet Dual Pre-Amp, set of 300B SET amplifiers and WHT PR4 loudspeakers.

Feedback much appreciated.
clipsal

Showing 4 responses by clipsal

clipsal OP
80 posts
 
So nobody here favors the Playback Design? That's amazing considering the great reviews in the past
clipsal OP
80 posts
 
I compared it to the AMR CD-77.1 and the AMR sounded absolutely fantastic on instrumentals and had tremendous detail and tight bass.

The AMR Basically relegated the old Audio Aero to the side lines.
clipsal OP
80 posts
 
Thanks Mitch, but was hoping to stick to the ones noted above.
clipsal OP
80 posts
 
Thanks everyone.

I've decided to settle on the AMR CD77.1.

The digital (DAC) area is changing very fast, thus more opportunities for DSD playback will be available in the future. In which case, I'll just purchase a DAC down the track as the CD77.1 is probably right up there in terms of best Redbook sound quality. In other words, today for all my CD's, the AMR makes logical sense.
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