To get the most from the Pontus you need a streamer transport like a Lumin U2 and the Denafrips DDC like an Iris or Hermes running I2S to the Pontus, otherwise you are driving it or even the Bifrost in 2nd gear.
DAC diminishing returns
Looking for some experienced input on the diminishing return as you go up the the DAC ladder. I mostly stream music and occasionally listen to CDs. Currently, I’m using a Schiit Bifrost Multibit DAC. It’s connected to my Naim Nait 5Si and that drives Zu Omen ii speakers. In my limited experience, I have not heard any substantial differences when changing DACs. I’m considering a Denafrips Pontus DAC. Does the significantly higher cost justify what might be a marginal increase in sound quality? Is buying a more expensive DAC for better sound just splitting hairs, and making you feel better about your system? Are different DACs just different coloration of the sound?
I don’t want to be duped into buying something I don’t really need. Thanks.
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Does the significantly higher cost justify what might be a marginal increase in sound quality? Do this test and see if you get it right 100%. If not ... no need to spend more money. https://www.npr.org/sections/therecord/2015/06/02/411473508/how-well-can-you-hear-audio-quality Of course if you just feel this itch to pamper yourself and get some nice new gear, that can be satisfactory all by itself.
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With Denafrips dacs I own 2 currently and in the mk2 version there is no micro skipping issue ,idont even know what that means. Look up pontus mk2 , or Terminator 2 dacs read some reviews , if going to buy state what is your Max budget this helps , as I mentioned the$4500-$6500 isthe sweet spot and they are made over seas Holo springs, and Denafrips you would have to pay much more to = this And both nowhave repair centers inthe U.S but are very dependable , they all sound different abit Multibit - R2R dacs are the original type dac chips and sound a bit smoother , going up the chain mola mola dac is great at$14 k ,and of course DCS dacs but are $$ ,which have their own custom architecture. |
Well a basic thing about hi fi. Each step up cost proportionately more for a smaller increase in sound quality. So it becomes at what level are you happy with your system? The best sounding system for the money spent is one that is balanced. Nothing to high up the food chain for the rest of the system.
Also another question a friend of mine has a Naim system and it likely is the system I have heard that makes the biggest difference if it it left on of any system I have heard do you leave your Naim on? If not give that a try and see what you think after it has been on a couple of weeks.
Regards |
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