Back to the DAC


Just a bit of an update. When I inquired about a DAC upgrade in a recent post, it was suggested that I look at upgrading my cables first. Since then, I have done so (see my virtual system for that). Not over the top stuff, but a definite improvement over the mostly stock, generic cables I originally had.

System is sounding pretty darn good, but like most of us, you always wonder what a more expensive DAC will offer in the way of sound quality improvements.

Many of the recommended, higher priced DACs seem to include streamers and/or offer pre-amp capabilities. I have a good streamer and pre-amp and really don’t want all those components in one box.

Have any of you experienced a DAC which offers the sound qualities of highly praised units like the Mola Mola Tambaqui, DCS Lina, T&A 200, Weiss DAC501, etc. which their only function is a DAC?

128x128navyachts

That’s high for M1SE @navyachts   wait for a used one. Since you mentioned II it kind of threw me off into thinking it was M1S2. 

@navyachts Best of luck with the search! There are more analytical DAC's perhaps, but for realism, correct tonality, and music that SOUNDS like music and not a digital reproduction, the PBD DAC's are hard to beat. Keep your eyes open for a used Playback Design Edelwiess MPD-6 perhaps. Compared to the Merlot, you will find similar sonic signature and musicality, but improved dynamics and more resolution. All the best. 

@yyzsantabarbara I'm suprised to see you said the PBD Merlot didn't work with your PLink based streamer. I used it with the PBD outboard streamer and later with another streamer and the PBD USB-X4 and Plink input with no issues. Best...

@audphile1 Retail on a new M1 SE is $10K, so $7,500 for a month old, dealer demo is decent, but you're right there is a 4 year old M1 SE here on AG for $5K...UGH!

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