Do I need a DAC?

You don't "Need" one, but do you want one? if you do, then keep in mind that you already have a pretty high end CD Player as it is, along w/a superb Pre Amp...I guess what I'm trying to say is, Make sure you "UPGRADE" and not downgrade. And that will equal to a high end Tube DAC.....You got the extra $$ laying around for that?

My BAT VK-5SE CD player trounces my custom modded Perpetual Technologies DAC and my Oppo 83 SE with the vaunted Sabre 32 DACS built-in. Unless you want/need the convenience of a computer source, no you do not "need" a DAC.

You have an excellent player and pre. I doubt that a separate DAC will add anything unless you spend megabucks to upgrade!

Interesting thread and responses. Ok, this member has a super high end player in BAT (tubes?? SS?? hybrid??) But do you need a DAC if you have a Rega Apollo which is very good or something similar?? Can a DAC like the Peachtree DAC*IT ($449) make any improvement in the playback sound???

I don't really want to spend more than that, because I don't need all the features of a more expensive DAC. I really have no interest in computer sourced audio, but would like to extend the performance of the Rega without necessarily degrading its sound quality. I guess it is question as to which DAC is better...the one in the Rega or the Peachtree?? Thanks

Thanks for the advice,