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Sub-$1250 DAC w/ built-in Headphone Amp

I currently have an entry level headphone listening stack, that I'd like to upgrade for both headphone listening, but to also include in a HiFi system stack when expanding my horizon to speakers. 

Currently have:
DAC = 'Ol DAC' from JDS Labs
Amp = Atom from JDS Labs

I am a bit overloaded with the options at this price point, but I know am looking for a smoother/richer sound from DAC as opposed to an analytical/etched sound. The following DACs come to mind - would any of you recommend one over the other? Source is primarily USB w/ Tidal MQA paired w/ HD58X Jubilee's.

- Mytek Liberty DAC II
- RME ADI-2 DAC FS
- DA-Art Aquilla II DAC
- SMSL M500 DAC
- Schiit Bifrost 2 (w/ separate headphone amp? or other multi-bit DAC?)
- Other?

Further - should I expect a substantial sound quality boost from my current set up?
uwrwilke
jbuhl's avatar
jbuhl
901 posts
 
The Wadia Di322 is out there in the wild if your patient. Its a good DAC and has headphone capability;  2 coax, 2 optical, 1 USB inputs plus XLR. Does DSD. ESS Saber 9016S implementation. Very similar to the Mcintosh D100 I believe.

Might find one in your price range.
Caveat: Mcintosh group has shelved the Wadia line but support service is available.
wolf_garcia
6,628 posts
 
The newest Cambridge Dacmagic looks pretty cool...MQA and all. I have an older one and it's great sounding. I also use a Schiit Bifrost 2 with a "Bluenode" 2i for MQA streaming although I rarely use it with headphones. Headphones in bed reading, pair of awesome Grado 325e with a Schiit Magni 3 from an old iPhone...yeah man... 
daveman2's avatar
daveman2
58 posts
 
My 2 cents - used Chord Hugo 1, used/new Okto dac8 Stereo, or new Audioquest Dragonfly Cobalt.
headphonedreams
523 posts
 
Forgot to say, if you plan to mainly listen with headphones you may want to upgrade those before buying a better dac + amp. Something like the Focal Elex, Beyer dt1990, Beyer Amiron Home or the new Drop hd8xx.

Pair this with whatever dac+amp you buy or just get a Dragonfly Cobalt to start with. It can be connected to a big amp but it is impractical to switch cables to headphones all the time.
loomisjohnson
1,905 posts
 
the chord mojo is awfully impressive for $500
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