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W4S or Rega Dac - Opinions Wanted

I’m about ready to consider a new DAC, Price range $800-$1,400 max-used.
Currently I’m using a Music Hall Dac 25.2 with a VLink 24 bit 96khz USB to S/PDIF. I’ve also using an upgraded tube in the music hall. I enjoy the warmth of the Music Hall and the detail seems good. However I would like to try something new. I listen to mostly digital files, both Lossless and some Flac. Can I do better in this price range?
I’ve read great things about the W4S dac-1/ and 2, Rega and Eastern Electric dac. I have no way to demo these so I hoping for opinions from those who have listed to more than one of these. My associated equipment is Audio Research SP-9 MKIII, Wyred 4 Sound ST250, Music Hall DAC 25.2, V LINK 24 BIT 96 kHz ASYCHRONOUS USB TO S/PDIF, mac mini, Polk Lsi 9
bklynnupe

Showing 3 responses by bklynnupe

bklynnupe OP
3 posts
 
Thanks.
I researched upgrades for my Music Hall but the ones that made the most sense were pretty expensive.
I’m not leaning towards trying out the w4s dac-1. I figure if the dac-1 is not what I expected, it has a recognized name and should retain most of it’s resell value.
bklynnupe OP
3 posts
 
Also, I’ve have read some descriptions of the w4s dac as being “too analytical” and lacking warmth. I suspect that my w4s amp and tube pre, is providing good amount of warmth. I obviously have not been able to validate this as I’m using my very limited personal experience with what I have and comments/opinions I have read. Perhaps I could use a bit more of this “analytical” detail? I’ll certainly have a better comprehension of everything once I’m able to try something new in my system.
Any opinions on the upgraded caps in the dac-1? I hear it sound like dac-2. Are the upgraded caps mandatory? Thanks.
bklynnupe OP
3 posts
 
Thanks everyone, I think I have my answer.
Face, you’re the one that convinced me to pull the trigger on the w4s amp. One of my best purchases for price and performance. Anyone looking to part with their a dac-1 with upgraded caps, drop me a line.
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