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used high-end DAC or affordable newer model?

I have an old adcom 575 cd player that i will be using as a transport and i was wondering if it would be better to do with a newer dac like the MSB link III or Channel Islands VDA-1- or should i go used high-end such as the EAD dsp 9000 pro now on ebay- it seems that the older high end dac's can be had for the same money as the newer affordable models but what are the sonic differences?
tdelgiudd97b

Showing 1 response by fineberg

fineberg
151 posts
 
I tried both approaches and ended up with a used Muse Model 296. They now sell for under $1400 and though their technology is behind the new Muse 192, they were so far ahead when they came out that they still haveup-sampling and other newer features AND a wonderful analogue section. I switched to this from a BelCanto 1.1 and it sounds so much better. It is equally smooth, has better tonal balance and a real sense of palpability. I think HelloSimply Music is selling one on the 'gon currently (I bought mine from them).

As for the LinkDAC III, I have heard it and don't think it is in the same class at all even with all the options.
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