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What exactly does a DAC do?

I have a NAD cd/dvd player that I really kinda like, but I would like better audio for stereo listening, but I have I some very fundamental questions for any patient souls out there.

1. What does a DAC do?

2. What is a transport? Is there such thing as a pure transport?

3. Would a DAC be beneficial in my rig?

4. Would a standard DAC work w/SACD, if I upgraded later.

Any input is appreciated. Google is not smiling upon me.
dubzilla

Showing 2 responses by audioengr

audioengr
3,282 posts
 
1. What does a DAC do?
Converts serial Digital data to two-channel analog

2. What is a transport? Is there such thing as a pure transport?
Reads CD's optically and outputs a special serial digital format called S/PDIF (Sony/Philips Digital Interface)

3. Would a DAC be beneficial in my rig?
Sure, most CDP's are inferior to god Transport/DAC combinations.

4. Would a standard DAC work w/SACD, if I upgraded later.
SACD does not allow the digital signal. The outputs are analog, however, you can still use the SACD transport to play normal CD's with your DAC.
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
I would not recommend older DAC's. DAC technology has come a long way in the last 2 years, particularly with upsamplers. Used ones are available and can be modded.
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