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W4S DAC1 / Stello DA100 / Cary Exciter DAC.

I haven't seen much talk about the Stello. It has every output I could use. I read the 6Moons review on it. Didn't exactly praise it so-to-speak. But for a grand I would expect decent results. I listened to the Cary. Loved it. But I only have it and the Music Hall 25.2 DAC to compare with. I've not heard the W4S DAC1 or 2. That seems to be getting more praise than I'm sure it deserves. Usually I take the band-wagon view when everyone seems to want one thing in particular. But this isn't always a good perspective because it may very well be that good. After all my research these three are what I've narrowed it down to. Well, two if the Stello shouldn't be considered at all. Looks like something geared directly to computer music.

I'm looking for a solid, textured bass response. Excellent clarity and resolution. And of course soundstage. Warmth is not a factor. I will eventually be going all tube so it'll warm up later in the chain. Expression and dynamics are very important. I listen to a lot of classical guitar, contemporary classical, and blues. Thanks for any inputs.
tiggerfc
kgturner's avatar
kgturner
663 posts
 
"That seems to be getting more praise than I'm sure it deserves."

i'm considering the w4s dac-1 and wonder what made you come to this conclusion.
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srama
41 posts
 
I would add the new series of Bel Canto dacs to that list. I just installed the new DAC2.5 into the system as a dac/pre connected via balanced output to my W4S ST500 power amp - I am in absolute awe of this combination. No fuzzy warmth to be found here - just tremendous resolution, space, air (add your choice of audiophile superlatives here) combined with the most relaxed presentation I have ever had in my system. My speakers are the new Gallo Reference Strada monitors with the TR-2 sub. The dac2.5 is an amazing value when you consider its versatility - a state of the art dac with multiple digital inputs AND an analog input, unbalanced and balanced outputs PLUS headphone amp PLUS a full-feautured remote that includes functions such as input naming, phase and balance. Absolutely incredible. BTW, I have no financial interest in the company - this is my first BC purchase and I am just sorry I waited so long - my plan is to eventually replace my W4S amp with the BC Ref monos - not that the W4S is a bad amp but the BCs have an indefinable something that just sounds so right.
For reference, I have owned many dacs over the past several years from MSB, Perpetual Technologies and Musical Fidelity. My last was the Peachtree Decco used as a dac/pre (admittedly a pretty steep step-down from my previous dac and pre-amps). The bel canto is without a doubt one the most satisfying purchases I have made in a very long time.
erikminer
433 posts
 
I have a W4S Dac 1, it's a great unit, and not just for the price. But hey it's only bested every other Dac I've had except my PS PWD, and the PWD is 3 times the price, and sure isn't three times better. There really is a reason everyone who's heard the W4S or bought one is thrilled.
tiggerfc OP
153 posts
 
Kgturner... Whenever I see what I consider to be the band-wagon approach to products I tend to steer clear. I've never heard this one so I really don't have an opinion to its qualities.

Srama... Thank you for your input. The only Bel Cantos I thought to look at were the 1, 2, and 3. Didn't care for any of them. However, that 1.5 looks like its right up my ally. Remote option is definitely a plus.

Erikminer... Thank you as well. The W4S certainly isn't far off from the pick. I just want to make this purchase count and do it once. For now...

W4S DAC1 at $1k. The Cary Exciter I can get for $1.2k and the BC 1.5 for $1.4k.

Of the revised list here, which way would you go? They all have the necessary inputs I need. I'm strictly looking at sound now. How do they compare? I just want the most resolute one with the deepest bass extension I can get. Which one of these will give that to me?
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