2. digital
  3. 192459-199203

Which DAC - Streamer or Preamp?

I’m finally indulging my audio-curious nature and beginning to build a listening room along with a higher-end two-channel system. I managed to snag a McIntosh C-47 preamp and an MC-312 amp, both used for decent prices. For now, I’ll be listening through a pair of Klipsch Heresy (1980) back by a pair of REL T/7x in a 16x24 basement space (sadly, with a low ceiling). I also just bought an Eversolo DMP-A6. So my question is, should I run balanced lines from the Eversolo, or should I run the digital feed to the C-47 for processing? I know that the right answer is "try both and go with with you like." But I am also curious what ’should’ be better on paper, or what some of you with much more experience than I have would say. Thanks for your thoughts!

mattsca

Showing 1 response by vthokie83

vthokie83
1,004 posts
 

OP, I suspect you are on the correct path upgrading the DAC....especially if the Eversolo DAC sounds better than the MAC unit. There are some very good DACs you can get for around $2,000. If I were looking in that range I'd look at: Denafrips Pontus 15th at $2,000....NOT the Pontus 12th or earlier. Benchmark DAC3 $1,900, Border Patrol DAC SE $1,400, Schitt Yggdrasil $2,300.

I'm a huge Denafrips fan and owner (as are many others), but you'll find support for all of the above options

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