Thoughts on DAC option


Current DAC is the original Auralic Vega . This was a HUGE upgrade in sound quality from a Cambridge Audio DAC Magic.

And things are good right now. Well, mostly, it's not like we are generally blessed with freedom from the desire to upgrade!

And now I have an option of a Chord 2qute. My main issue with the current setup is the fatigue on some music. EDM is generally fantastic, however rock is often harsh. Voices are great.

So the question is whether the Chord could smooth off the sharper edges of things.

All feedback gratefully received.

System is:

Sources - PC and Auralic Aries Mini

Amp - Prima Luna Frank Hybrid Integrated

Speakers - Krix Harmonix 2

Interconnects and speaker cables are average but not the biggest factor here from what I can tell.

incoming

Showing 1 response by lanx0003

Vega has a pretty decent DAC section and built-in analog preamp designed to minimize distortion and noise. So I agree with all the gentlemen suggesting you leave the Vega as is and focus on the cabling instead. Refining cables to tune the sound is a great approach—it works in my system, though it does cost money. Speaking from my own experience, if someone as frugal as I am doesn’t mind spending on cables, nothing should stop you.

When it comes to interconnect cables, DH Labs and Cardas are two affordable brands worth considering. In general, DH Labs’ silver-plated series offers more dynamics and punch in the low end, while Cardas’ pure copper provides a smoother presentation. Both feature gas injection to vacuum the line, reducing dielectric constant and capacitance that sort of good stuff.  The choice ultimately comes down to personal taste. Beyond their price point, the law of diminishing returns kicks in—and it’s up to you to decide whether you want to go further down that rabbit hole.