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Which matters more, DAC or transport?

In my search to better the digital playback of my system I've been lead to look at several DACs to couple with my arcam cd36, and have also considered buying a whole new player like a McIntosh mcd 201 or maybe even a lower end esoteric. My question is: will I get better results using a good DAC (for $2000 to $3000) with my mid-fi transport or with a new player that has a better transport mechanism built in, coupled with what's probably a slightly less sophisticated onboard DAC? Also, what do people think of the Bel Canto DAC3? It's one I've considered. Thanks.
128x128jamiek

Showing 2 responses by mapman

mapman's avatar
mapman
21,924 posts
 
Yes, you need a good jitter free signal but getting one from a transport or other source and cable or via reclocking right at the DAC is not rocket science these days and no longer must cost a fortune either IMHO.

Assuming a good signal can be had relatively easily, then the choice of DAC will always have a huge impact on resulting sound from there and matters a lot.
mapman's avatar
mapman
21,924 posts
 
The easy way is to just buy an integrated player.

If the Arcam is an older device, it is probably possible to improve on it in all regards with newer models at modest cost, like a Rega or Cambridge Audio player, say.

If it is newer, then it might be worth trying the DAC first and then changing transport later but only if needed.

GOing the DAC route will also open up the option of using a music server if interested, which is really something worth considering for the future.

PErsonally, I'd think twice before dumping a lot of money into a high end integrated CD player these days.
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