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Best DAC for around $2,500 or less

What are your opinions on the best DAC for under $2,500?  Looking at the Schiit Yggy or many of recommend Denafrips so looking at their Pontus.  Any thoughts on how these two compare?  It might be misguided by I tend to think your getting a little more for your money with a direct to consumer company like Schiit and I know they are highly regarded for their DACS.  Anything else to look at in this price range? 
mvrooman1526
sense63
52 posts
 
I would throw the Bryston BDA-3 into the mix (if purchased used) as it does everything well with all kinds of music.  
timo62
279 posts
 
Chord Qutest is a very nice sounding DAC and worth a try.

agwca
86 posts
 
How more on you getting for 2500 that you can't get for half that say an RME ADI2 and then how much better is that over a Denefrips Ares or Topping D90?  Is it worth going to higher priced units?
itsjustme
681 posts
 
i would consider, in no particular order:
  • Denefrips
  • Chord Qutest
  • Mytek Brooklyn
  • Schiit (but that is my least fav - they shine at the low end)
  • Allo for like $450 with fancy power (seriously)problem with Allo is that its basically "roll your own"

You also need to ask "do i want a network connected DAC or is USB/SPDIF sufficient?". I strongly urge getting a network connected DAC. It;’s at least as good sounding and seriously flexible/convenient. Some reasons it is technically (sonically) superior too.
andrei_nz
192 posts
 
I have had Oppo 105 and Oppo 205 used as DACs.  Also Had Wyred DAC2 v2.  Better than all of those is the Matrix Audio X-Sabre    https://matrix-digi.com/en/products/318.html  They are good enough for a friend's TAD References.  Although an apples vs oranges comparison they are a better product than my magicos.
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