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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
6 responses Add your response
sadbird OP
22 posts
 
Is anyone familiar with the  Audiolab 6000N Wi-Fi Audio Streaming Player/Internet Tuner which is somewhat price comparable with the Bluesound
soix
9,456 posts
 
Yup, buy a used Node 2i and give Qobuz a try — you won’t be disappointed and probably find your DAC is perfectly fine.  I switched from Tidal to Qobuz and would not go back FWIW. 
sadbird OP
22 posts
 
All good counsel and I appreciate the immediate feedback. I've been considering a streamer such as the low-cost Bluesound Node 2.1 and apparently it's time!
crn3371
224 posts
 
Upgrade your streaming service(s) first. You might be surprised at how good your current DAC can sound.
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,417 posts
 
Before you change Dacs I think you should hear how good Hires streaming sounds compared to Spotify.

And Wifi is way superior to Bluetooth. Buy a Bluesound Node2i from an online dealer with a return policy. Then use the free trials for Tidal and Qobuz.

Ag insider logo xs@2x
jazzman7
347 posts
 
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.

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