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Quest for an external Dac has resulted in me way down the rabbit hole

Hi audio wizards!  I’ve read several articles and reviews about the benefits of a good quality external DAC, and the potential for “real” improvements in musical quality in a current system. I do believe my system might be in line .  I currently have a Rotel 955 CD player I like, a nodeii and a Creek evo 100 integrated amp.  The Ohm 1000 speakers sound a little lean in the top end although I do like them overall.  At this point I’ve been looking for a Dac that would bring a little more “spring and liven up my system”.  However, the more I research, the more confused I get.  I’ve been to a couple higher end stereo stores and I seem to just get the “party line”.  I live in Denver Colorado, and although I like the PS Audio line I can’t afford them.  If any one has any advice for me on a good quality external     
Dac model for under $1000 (new or used) I could sure use the help! Thank you

 

128x128dbwinters
jjss49's avatar
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jjss49
6,612 posts
 

The Ohm 1000 speakers sound a little lean in the top end although I do like them overall.  At this point I’ve been looking for a Dac that would bring a little more “spring and liven up my system”.

i think you will be very happy with this one - no affiliation so do your due diligence... among $1000 dacs i think this is one of the best with a 'lively' yet rich sound

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649863425-soekris-dac1541-w-remote-and-update-cable/

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
4,344 posts
 

Denafrips Aries, based on reviews, is a warm sounding DAC. If you’re looking to liven up the top end, not sure that’s the right DAC.

I would look for a used Benchmark DAC3 B. 

dbwinters's avatar
dbwinters OP
11 posts
 

I heard that in one review, I  wish there were ways to load them up, take a few home and compare them.  Unfortunately can’t do that here.

 

jayctoy's avatar
jayctoy
3,769 posts
 

Maybe 4 yrs ago I’ve heard all the denafrips Model at Axpona , I heard the terminator down to Ares l , For my taste in that system I’ve heard them , I prefer the sound of Ares , upfront I told them I will buy the Ares after the show, I still have the Ares.Agon member Trelja likes the Ares dac as well.He  heard them all also in New Jersey . I think Vince is the guy who demoed them, very nice and knowledgeable.

boostedis
92 posts
 

To the OP, your other components should be your starting point. DACs can make a HUGE difference in a resolving system, but would hardly make a sonic difference if the rest of the components are of lessor quality (which is why you like your current CD player/DAC). Speakers will make the biggest difference in sound followed by your Amp/PreAmp. Change those first and then the you will be able to hear the difference a good DAC can make. 

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