Back to the DAC

@tvad +1

I used Bricasti M3 network card connected with high quality Ethernet cables for a while until I tried Aurender N200 via USB into the M3. Blew away using the network card. 
Internally, the M3 network card is connected to the board using I2S if I am not mistaken. In general, I2S was developed for internal connections and that is partly the reason why there’s no industry standard for thr pin configuration which in some units makes it a crapshoot selection a transport for it. Whether or not it’s the best connection is debatable. Fo me the USB out of N200 into M3 was in another league. 
 

So…when making blanket statements about what connection is best sounding you only show your lack of consideration and understanding of what the best connection on a given component is, out or in, for a particular listener, and why that is the case. Equipment compatibility and synergy is key. Especially for I2S that has more pin confirmations than California has raisins. Good luck to you. 

@audphile1 amen!

I’m a real nubie regarding the nuances of separates vs integrated units. I have McIntosh MA8900 integrated amp with DA2 upgrade, a Naim Uniti Core CD ripper streamer, and Luxman D 07X SACD player, along with Von Schweikert Endeavour speakers. All cables/interconnects are high end. 
How do I know if the MA8900 DA2 is (very) good?  Do I use the DAC within the Luxman?  Would a specialty DAC be a good investment with my current set up? R do basic components need upgrading?

THX 

TShark Dallas TX

For reproduction of CDs, I extremely recommend the Jay's Audio CDt3 Mk3.  I've tried over a dozen cheap to expensive (PS Audio) transports over the past 5 years (recent change to separates).  It is vastly superior and beautifully built.  

As to DACs, I've tried older ones and generally found them wanting.  They were mostly lesser cost ones (the Topping D70S for example).  Also COS Engineering D1 and D2.  I've ordered the Lampizator Poseidon to be a one and done unit.  

In the meantime, I am using a fully discrete 2010 Emotiva XDA-1 DAC (their only discrete DAC) with extreme power supply (5 Sparkos regulators cost $47 each, caps, etc).  Also and Acme treated fuse.  Total cost for unit, parts and labor $1200. This is in a high end system.  I am getting near SOTA CD sound, better than I've heard streaming at a dozen audio shows.  The combination of DAC and transport is fabulous and yet I know it could be SOTA with a Lampizator (I heard my speakers with the Horizon).  

DACs keep improving generally.  A $2700 DAC LAiV Harmony got a very high recommendation.  An unusual R2R design with a reportedly more articulate, forward sound than R2R designs are known for.  I haven't heard it.  The T&A line is from a major manufacturer and the build quality is excellent.  I do not recommend the Weiss, dry and hard compared to the others.  The Lampizator Baltic 3 is also a good choice.  Don't know what the DCS Lina sounds like either.    

As to cabling, I am using lower cost digital cabling from my transport (step above Blue Jeans which is very neutral and a steal at $35) similar to the Westminster Labs lower end digital cable.  The analog XLR cable to my pre-amp is also lower cost but very good as well (I use Grover Huffman cabling throughout).  I will switch to an AES digital cable when my Poseidon arrives.