- the new Schiit Yggdrasil+ Less Is More (is a great DAC). I have not heard the other 2 new Yggi+’s that measure better. The USB input is also good on this DAC. It beat a $15K DAC/Streamer for my ears.
Recommend me a DAC under 3k
Hi All,
Long time reader, first time poster!
I’m expanding my all-analog system to add a proper digital front end and would like recommendations for a DAC to connect to my Wiim pro plus.
Listening Habits:
I primarily listen to LPs, but appreciate the convenience and discoverability that digital provides. I don’t have a digital music library and only stream via Tidal and Spotify. My 2-channel system does double duty as a sound system for our TV as well.
Requirements:
- All-in <= $3k
- Prioritizes sound quality above all else
- Streaming supports Tidal Connect directly or via some other protocol
- TosLink Input (for casual TV)
Personal Preferences:
- When tuning components in my system, I’ve preferred ones that are more detailed/transparent rather than overly warm/harmonic. E.g. Telefunken over Amperex or Mullard. Duelund CAST over AN copper.
- Realistic tone/timbre, soundstage, micro-detail, and impactful bass are important to me.
Currently under consideration:
- Denafrips Pontus II 12th
- Denafrips Venus II
- Schiit Yggdrasil
- ANK DAC 4.1x (with Duelund caps, etc)
- Gustard R26
The rest of my system is as follows:
- CSS 2TD-x tower speakers (neutral with some mid-bass warmth)
- ANK EL34 35W Monoblocks
- ANK L5 Mentor Preamp
- ANK L3 Phono V2
- Mofi Ultradeck with Master Tracker cartridge
- Richard Gray 600RM Pro Power Conditioner
- ...
- 88 posts total
Given what you’re looking for, I’ll recommend the Musician Pegasus DAC along with one of their DDCs that enable you to use the i2S input on the DAC that was a big step up over using its SPDIF input. Here’s a review of both the DAC and then using it with their top DDC that give you an idea of the sound qualities of both the DAC and what a DDC brings to the table, and I concur with all his impressions… https://soundnews.net/accessories/level-up-your-dac-musician-phoenix-ddc-review/ Hope this gives you another option to chew on, and best of luck in your search. |
I primarily listen to LPs, but appreciate the convenience and discoverability that digital provides. I don’t have a digital music library and only stream via Tidal and Spotify. My 2-channel system does double duty as a sound system for our TV as well. I recommend you get a Marantz 8805 for around $2K and an apple TV 4k. You will have a DAC in the unit plus get an instant upgrade for your TV and your sound system will now be capable of both hirez. dsd, and spatial audio/atmos. https://hometheaterhifi.com/reviews/receiver-processor/processors/marantz-av8805-processor-review/ Note the phono, digital, and analog inputs included on the rear of the 8805:
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- 88 posts total