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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
navyachts's avatar
navyachts OP
477 posts
 

@yyzsantabarbara The DAC I’m getting doesn’t have an HDMI port so I think I’m kind of out of luck with your suggestion. But thanks anyways!

yyzsantabarbara
4,553 posts
 

My DACs do not have HDMI either.

The HDMI I refer to is the output from the transport. In my case the transport is a used $250 OPPO Blu-ray player. That HDMI goes into the D.BOB. The D.BOB outputs SPDIF, which I expect any DAC you buy to have. The DAC ouput goes into your preamp.

This is reference level SACD and CD sound for under $1k for me. I am comparing this to the reference level Sony SCD-1 modded by Vacuum State. 

 

navyachts's avatar
navyachts OP
477 posts
 

OK, I boned up on it & have got it now (with the D.BOB.) It sounds interesting, but this DAC has sucked me dry, but I'll keep in mind, thanks again!

mclinnguy's avatar
mclinnguy
283 posts
 

this DAC has sucked me dry

Wow, that must be quite the DAC. 

agentwja
26 posts
 

I bought a second  hand Merason Frerot DAC with the external power supply over a year ago ( @ Zlone I would recommend it) and I am truly enjoying the detail and sound stage I never knew existed. I stream through a Blusound Node2i. I have no plans to upgrade at the minute. 
 

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