2. digital
  3. 1210060268

Best DAC for under $1500

Looking for a new DAC that is under $1500. Please advice.
I prefer a musical, natural, and smooth, sound with a good soundstage. The current short list consists of older Mark Levinson, Northstar, and Audio Research.

My existing system consists of magnepan speakers with a hybrid integrated amp.

Thanks in advance.
seanchau
gmood1
1,251 posts
 
The Theta Va is a winner IMHO. Very musical Dac..no grain or hardness from what I could detect.
jond's avatar
jond
5,688 posts
 
Keep your eyes peeled for a Timbre TT-1, they sometimes pop up for $6-800, I used to have one and it was a real smoothie with great detail. It also looks cool. I rather miss it. It is quite a bit older but sold for about $4K new and is well regarded. Happy listening!
orfe
14 posts
 
find yourself a classe dac1 if you want reviews there are plenty of them
robertbrown
151 posts
 
If you can find Msb Platinum DAC I you get used for around $1500 the new Msb Platinum DAC iii sells for $5999
A totally different league that anything listed so far
seanchau OP
47 posts
 
Thanks again for all your advice.
I like to add that I am using the DAC w/ Squeezebox, not sure if that will change your recommendations.
More to discover