2. digital
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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
kuhyay
dhite71
289 posts
 

@kuhyay 

I think we can all appreciate brand synergy for both sound and aesthetics.  I see you are leaning to ANK which will match your other gear. 
 

i have had limited experiences with DACs with only two brands, Schiit and Audio Research.  I started with Gungnir and moved to Yggy and heard the improvements.  My other gear is ARC so then tried a DAC 8 and was definitely an improvement over the Yggy. ARC doesn’t seem to have much respect towards their DACs as I rarely see them mentioned but they have worked quite wellbin my system. I now have. CD 6 for dual purpose.  
 

These are all easy to buy/sell used and ship so I would encourage you to try several over time snd make sure you find the one you love. 

chowkwan
154 posts
 

Burl b good. Crane Song Solaris Quantum DAC better. $2k from Sweetwater.

90% of the sound of the Nagra HD DAC X at 3% of the price.

Takeaway: look at pro audio.

wspohn's avatar
wspohn
579 posts
 

I'd add Hegel to your list - anything from the HD 12 through H 120 do a great job.

fynnegan
93 posts
 

I think the question begs for a streaming function which does not leave many options. Those from Lumin and Auralic come to mind. Lumin’s software is solid a used T2 or T1 which is easier to find. 

jeffrey125
282 posts
 

+1 @liquidsound the BP DAC is a excellent choice. 

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