@kjl1065, after I had become infatuated with the sound of my Chord Qutest, the logical next step up for me was to acquire a TT2, which I got at a fantastic price by trading the almost new Qutest for a floor model TT2. Shortly thereafter the motherboard on the TT2 had to be replaced, and luckily it was serviced in Texas and returned to Minnesota in a little over a week. So no problems with overseas repairs.
If I was starting all over again I might have jumped directly into a gently used Chord Dave. A cursory search on eBay produced two used Dave DACs going for around $6,700 USD. I’m still really happy with my TT2 and Hugo m scaler combo to the point that I haven’t thought about changing audio gear in over three years. I use 15-16v Sbooster linear power supplies with both units.
UPGRADE PATH FROM CHORD QUTEST DAC
Seeking to purchase a new DAC from my current Chord Qutest which has a S Booster Power Supply. I prefer to work with a dealer and am looking for a DAC that can be serviced in the United States. Thus far, I have been recommended by a dealer to go with the Weiss 204. I believe that to maximize the Weiss Dac I must purchase a linear power supply to replace the switching power supply that comes with the DAC. The Modwright upgrade for the Weiss 204 has been suggested at a cost of $1000.00 and has received really good reviews. The total cost for the Weiss 204 with Linear Powwer supply would be $4500.00. Any other suggestions would be appreciated to aid me in my search. Don't wish to exceed $5000.00 and not looking to purchase used. Thanks in advance.
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@kjl1065 Like someone said the Gustard X30 might be a good option for $3K US. In the one review of the X30 the reviewer said it was every bit as good as his Dave and then some. The Musetec MH-DA006 looks really awesome, the build is fantastic and is probably in line with what you seek for performance gains. I dont own either, but both should be on your shortlist and easily meet your price point. I own a Gustard A26 and a Innuos Phoenix |
Audio Mirror Tubadour IV SE. An excellent tube Dac at a great price.(4000) Built in recclocker to lower jitter. Furutech recepticle...Gaia footers..internal componets are all good quality.
Moving from Octo Dac8 to Tubadour...noticed sound stage got a bunch wider...more separtion of instruments. A lil more texture. |
If you like your Qutest but just want "more" of that same sound it would make sense to stay in the Chord family and at least audition the TT2. Should be easy to find at a dealer. List price is a few hundred dollars over your $5,000 limit but I’m pretty sure you could talk the dealer down that much or more. I hear mixed things about the Weiss 204. Love Weiss but they might have compromised too much trying to hit that lower price target. |
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