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DAC recommendations

Okay. So, before this becomes the typical dac battle, let me explain what I have and what I’m looking for. My system consists of an Aric Audio Custom 300b PSET amp(almost always in class A set mode), Audio Note an-e/lx speakers, Cambridge cxn v2 streamer modified by ModWright tube dac and a Topping d90 dac. I can switch back and forth to get a tube sound from the ModWright or a more “accurate” depiction of the recording through the Topping. After a few months, I think I want something in the middle. The tube dac lacks a little clarity and the Topping is very critical of poor recordings. Both have their times when they sound better but I’m seeking a middle ground. 
Here’s what I’m looking for. I would like clarity, without being analytical. But most of all, I want natural sounding! I want a piano to sound like a piano etc…Lastly, I prefer a bit more bass and less bright sounding. Does this dac exist?

Ive looked at the Denafrips Terminator 2 and would prefer not to spend $6800. Does the Venus 2 fit? Bricasti m3? Other suggestions? I have some high quality components and would like a dac to match. Thanks in advance 

earthbound
audioguy85's avatar
audioguy85
2,017 posts
 

My Border Patrol dac sounds quite nice to me, especially with the tube circuit engaged. I use it with my Cyrus transport. 

tk21
237 posts
 

Maybe I'm missing something here.  To me, it does not make sense to upgrade an already-good DAC (or two) without first moving on from the low-res Airplay/WiFi connection.  

Stick with Apple Music if you like, but ditch Airplay/WiFi (for music playback) by connecting a headless Mac to your DAC via USB cable.  Then control the Mac from your listening position via laptop/tablet/phone with screen-sharing (or whatever connection your devices support). This  setup would support HiRes file playback from Apple Music ... or from another service such as Tidal or Qobuz.

 

 

dinosore
101 posts
 

I wouldn't buy anything until you get your streaming service sorted out.  I use Tidal and Qobuz, but also have Apple Music as part of my cell phone plan.  No matter what I do, streaming Apple Music via AirPlay 2 just doesn't sound right to my ears. I know it is limited to 16/44, but I still have 16/44 files and CDs that sound much more natural.  

earthbound OP
133 posts
 

So I read up more on Apple Music and it does appear that there is some processing, or lack there of, going on that essentially makes their high def files not as good. A poster here pointed it out and I followed up this morning. It’s pretty shitty of Apple to introduce their lossless format but not go the entire way. Needless to say, I will be taking the advice of all those who suggested Qobuz. My goal today is to get an appointment for the land line installation. Once that occurs, download Qobuz and the reevaluate. 

earthbound OP
133 posts
 

Gentlemen. Do I need the land line connection to the router to get started with Qobuz. Cambridge uses the Streamlogic app, which I currently use which is also good with Qobuz. I use Wi-Fi now. I know land will be better, but is it necessary? 

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