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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
plaw
80 posts
 

You may want to go to Crescendo Fine Audio.  Among others, they have the Chord Qutest.  I really liked it when they let me audition it at home.  I have a PS Audio Direct Stream and the Chord was almost there.  My son has the iFi and it sounds really good.  I have heard the Schitt Modi in my son's system, it is OK.  Good value.  I have been burned by several manufacturers - they all have two things in common:  No returns.or Warranty not transferrable.

ticat's avatar
ticat
325 posts
 

+1 chayro

OP, for a Fresh perspective, look at the alternatives to a Delta/Sigma DAC... Schiit, Denefrips, Soekris, Musician Audio, MHDT and many others offer something other than Tiss, Ssss and Hiss...

joey54
431 posts
 

You may want to try to find a used Ayre Codex. They can often be found under $1000 and should give you the sound you are looking for. Good Luck!

jbuhl's avatar
jbuhl
900 posts
 

I am in Boulder.  PM me I have a DAC you might be interested in. 

romanesq
86 posts
 

Some good choices for consideration but the issue is that you may get one of these good ones and then decide it's not altogether impressive with your current system.

IMHO, that's the risk you take with your existing setup. I would suggest a RME ADI-DAC 2 which is available reconditioned or nearly new at your price point.

It is so flexible and brings so much more to the table than the others. You may land up making changes in other components but you will keep the RME.

Currently, I run it in a full-range system with rebuilt monoblock tube amps. It's a great match and no need for a preamp; the RME is a great product and great value.

Best of luck in your selection and happy listening. 

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