Ben, I don't wish to enter a philosophical debate on the stratification of performance/value of audio gear. However, with regard to the Bel Canto DAC-1, I vote BUY IT! I own one (which replaced a Parasound DAC-2000 Ultra) and I couldn't be more pleased. It was definitely a worthwhile upgrade for me. :)
What price hi-fi?
This may start some debate I am hesitating over my next hi-fi purchase-a Bel Canto Dac1-even with the 10 day back guarantee-I can't audition cause I stay in the UK and have to buy from France... Having recently auditioned the new Arcam CD23 I wasn't convinced it did for me in terms of value for money. Ok only I can decide butI'd be interested to see others experiences-nerves before a big purchase,mistakes which have led to begging for refunds,wives who filed for divorce when receipts were found. Is there a value system outwith the obvious financial constraints that people use in upgrading or buying new equipment? Ben