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To DAC or not to DAC...

I am looking to build a high fidelity audio server that would connect to a tube amp.
The amp has only analog inputs, so after doing some research it seems that the best bet in getting good sound out of the computer would be an external DAC.

I have some music in 24bit format, so USB DAC is out of question(16bit output,only), optical seems to be the way of getting bit-perfect output.

Is this scenario the best one for my needs? According to my research, yes. But I would like some input.

A good DAC can cost up to 20k USD, but I am looking for something in range of 1000USD and under. Recommendations are HIGHLY praised!

mike
vdg

Showing 1 response by tobias

tobias
1,534 posts
 
I did a careful comparison of the Benchmark DAC-1 with the Apogee Mini-DAC, in a pal's system using GamuT electronics and Gradient speakers. The transport was by Sonic Frontiers.

The two DACs sounded quite different. Although both could be lyrical with female voices the Apogee sound seemed more concerned with musical flow whereas the Benchmark with the musical moment. The Apogee sounded more natural to me, although that's a matter of taste. With the Benchmark, the music sounded 'ripped', on steroids with all its muscles defined.

I'm sure that if you can audition the two, you will have a clear preference.
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