Streamer/DAC combinations

My 2 cents- upgrade the power cord to the node and invest in the DAC. The node is just the server!

@moonwatcher and @soix 

I never auditioned any iteration of the Denafrips Pontus, but I had several decent DACs in my system. I just sold Bricasti M3 and am trying to figure out my next move. Meanwhile, since I was always curious about the PS Audio DSD DAC, I picked up the Mk1. I must say that I’m enjoying it a great deal!

It’s a unique DAC in that it’s very detailed but manages that while being very natural and full sounding. Soundstage is excellent and the presentation is laid back and relaxed without losing drive and dynamics. Running the latest Sunlight firmware. It’s an amazing value under $2,000. 

@soix ​​@vthokie83 ​​​​​​@audphile1 thanks for your input regarding the Pontus II -12th and the PS Audio DSD DAC Mk1. That Mk1 is available at TMR for around $1700 to $1800 or add another $200 and get their network streaming card. Very tempting considering it was selling for $6K not too long ago. As others note, DACs have all come a long way in the last say 5 years. Good to have great options in the $2K range which suits my interest and budget (and likely would get all I can from my system without buying "too much" DAC). Then again, all the reviews of the Pontus II make deciding pretty tough. At some point, since we can’t hear these in person, we make a choice and go with it. Thankfully there is the TMR to trade in gear (or Audiogon for selling) if we get something that doesn’t suit us. Thanks again. Also note that yes, I have concerns about getting anything serviced. Anything made by man can break after all. Glad to know that Denafrips does have a service center here in the U.S. I’m not sure how good any additional warranties through 3rd parties at Amazon would really be in practice.

Mine’s just a DAC. I got it from TMR. 
The PS Audio bridge doesn’t have a good rep. I wouldn’t bother with it.

@audphile1 so you're liking the PS Audio DAC over your recently sold Bricasti M3?