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Best natural, musical DAC under $3K?

I've been using a Oppo HA-1 headphone amp/DAC in my system and for $1200 no doubt it's an excellent value in the Oppo tradition. As a DAC it had good detail, handled complex passages well, but sounded a bit staged and unnatural to my ears especially in the upper registers.

Of course I'd have to up quite a bit in price, but for under $3K what's your recommendation for "natural" "correct" "organic" "musical" DAC that would do at least partial justice to my just in Verity Parsifal speakers?

So far my top three contenders are:

1) Chord Hugo
2) Wyred4Sound SE
3) Cary Audio 100-T

Any clear choice here? Am I missing something obvious?

Thanks!
larrybou
nglazer
845 posts
 
Why not a PS Audio PWD MkII. With their new DSD model, the MkII's are available used for an attratctive orice, and it is a top notch, highly versatile DAC.

Neal
loftarasa
171 posts
 
Hey Larrybou, assuming you don't need a built-in preamp or DSD, if I was going again with your budget I'd look at:
Aqua La Voce S2
Metrum Hex
Audial Model S / Model S USB

Cheers
8lanair
19 posts
 
The PS Audio PWD MK11 can be bought for under $3K.
I just got one from Underwood HiFi here on Audiogon.
The DSD is over the $3k tho...
soix
8,876 posts
 
There is a Bel Canto 3.5 VBS for sale in your price range. I had the 3.0 VBS in my system and it exhibits all the characteristics you listed in spades and I believe would work superbly with your Parsifals. The 3.5 VBS has been reviewed against some of the best DACs extant and more than held its own, and I'd recommend jumping on this without hesitation. Best of luck in whatever you end up with.
wisnon
700 posts
 
Amber lampi is under $2K with DSD and gucci caps.
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