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Upgrade Denafrips Terminator 2

Hi Guys,

I started my "DAC Journey" around 3 years ago. Over the time I had an Rasperry Pi 3b with integreated DAC, a Bluesound Node, then a Denafrips Pontus 2 and now a Denafrips Terminator 2. 

I am pretty happy with the T2, but I am looking for the secret Gamechanger in the DAC category.

Sure, the T2 is a great DAC, but there is for todays standard better stuff out there, even for a bit less money I guess.

My next DAC should sound a bit more holographic, more revealing with that warm sound signature. I think the R2R technology is the way to go, but I am open for everything. What I probably love the most about the T2 is that Bass slam. So I am looking forward for that kind of sound.

I read a lot about the very hyped up Holo Audio May. Also other brands like Lampizator, Rockna and LAIV are a names that can not be ignored.

 

I am a used buyer, so everything up to 5.5k for a used price is okay for me. I just need some suggestions or experiences from you guys.

Maybe someone has an cheaper option as an secret advice from a small company.

Looking forward hearing from you.

braun-hifi

Showing 3 responses by soix

soix
10,015 posts
 

@nagel The reason I mentioned the Harmony in particular is that they’ve apparently bent over backwards to make it relatively easy to demo it at home worldwide, which is why I thought it’d be an appealing option for you. At least worth looking into I’d think.

soix
10,015 posts
 

@nagel  Are you using the VBS with your 3.5?  I found the DAC3VB (great DAC BTW) to be a big improvement over the stock DAC3 in my system.  I’d recommend looking at doing a trial of the new LAiV Harmony DAC as it’s getting very positive reviews and will give you a good idea of what an R2R DAC brings to the table.  Just a thought FWIW.

soix
10,015 posts
 

I’d strongly consider adding something like a Hermes DDC and using the i2S connection.  I added an Iris to my R2R DAC using i2S and the level of improvement was like upgrading to a better DAC.  Background noise I didn’t know was there was cleared away and imaging popped better along with an expanded and more 3D soundstage.  If these are the kind of improvements you’re looking for this may do the trick and potentially be much cheaper/less risky than trying a whole new DAC.  Just another option to consider, and best of luck.

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