I think the SPL Diamond DAC I just wrote some impressions on would fit your bill. Give it a listen if you can.
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
@kuhyay did you buy? I see there is no love here for exaSound? Here is an excellent post: https://audiophilestyle.cayre-codex-lampizator-amber-schiit-yggy-exasound-e32-and-ayre-qx-5-dac-comparison Oh, and exaSound provides a 30 day trial for the current e62 -(e38 not produced anymore) |
Do not be swayed by arrogant, "must be exotic or it is junk" posters any more than the SINAD chasers. Use your own ears in your system. As there are clear preferences in sound from the many DACs mentioned, that kind of confirms you need to listen to your taste. "Correct " may not mask bad recordings as some euphonic distortion will, so your choice. The Schiit Gungnir is OBE. They have the Bifrost and Yggdrasil for multibit. I do not think RMEs are available with the AKM. They claim their ESS sounds the same. Execution seems to mean a lot more than the chip.
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- 88 posts total