Time for a new DAC?


In my modest audio system I still use a Bryston BDA-1 DAC. DAC chip sets have evolved since this unit was designed and built but the power and output stages are likely still capable. I have not dipped my toes onto hi-rez music services such as TIdal or Qubuz and currently use only Spotify for music listening. Given these parameters would there be a significant audible benefit to upgrading the DAC to something around $1200 or less? The other relevant components in the system are a NAD C165BEE preamplifier, Adcom GFA 5500 amplifier and Totem Forrest speakers. Currently I Bluetooth through an Auris BluMe but am considering a streaming device in its place. 
sadbird

Showing 1 response by jazzman7

Hello dsands!
The Bryston BDA-1 is still a very capable DAC. It’s only real limitation is that it’s USB input is limited to 48K. I had one in my main rig for years, and now have it in my second system. If you are not venturing beyond Spotify in terms of resolution, I see no need to upgrade. And if you do get into streaming CD quality or higher resolutions, the BDA-1 is still quite capable, especially via its coax, toslink, and AES/EBU inputs.  Try streaming Tidal or Qobuz using a  Bluesound Node or some such hooked up to the BDA-1's coax or toslink inputs and I think you'd be very pleased.