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Analyzing DACs

As I am new to the hifi hobby, reading various product reviews and noting the details of the test environment have made me very confused.  I understand Stereophile is the hifi bible. In the publication’s DAC published tests the reviewers almost always tested the DAC connected directly to the amplifier. I think I understand why—nothing in the chain influencing the DAC sound. Is that the correct assumption? If that’s the case why incorporate a preamp if the DAC has a preamp section that is a common feature even on high end DACs? I’m in the market for a new DAC. I’m trying to avoid unnecessary components if possible. Any thoughts would be appreciated. Thanks.  

tee_dee
kota1
2,706 posts
 

Good DACs cost a lot of money

I don't think this is the case in 2023, Thomas talks about an approach to DAC's that is "good enough" and I tend to agree with him. FWIW I do own a Sony Signature DAC that is their SOA, but the DAC in my Bluesound Node streamer is certainly "good enough":

 

yyzsantabarbara
4,887 posts
 

@verdantaudio Have you compared the Lumin X1 DAC in your shootout? I need to get another DAC and trying to find a reason not to get a second X1. Variety would be nice or maybe not, since I like the X1’s sound and features. The other DAC I have on my mind is the Musetec 005, which I have owned before and much cheaper and also like (but no streamer)

I am curious about other DACs in the higher priced bracket. Along with DACs that have USB as their best sounding input, like the Musetec 005. I will stream with fibre optical Sonore OpticalRendu (fibre-to-usb) if I do not get another X1.

I will go with a 2nd Benchmark LA4 preamp and currently the CODA #16 amp. Although, I may keep the CODA #16 in the office system and get a KRELL XD amp for the new DAC.

In my opinion, the DAC is the second most important component after the speakers - it is creating the signal you listen too.

Agree on this.

verdantaudio's avatar
verdantaudio
1,500 posts
 

@yyzsantabarbara i have not had the X-1 in for a detailed evaluation. I have heard it though and am familiar with Lumin’s sound.  The DAC I would say you must listen to is one I am about to write up.  The Soul Note D-2.  USB is unquestionably the best input.  There is a rich story behind the brand founders experience but that has led to some really incredible and natural sounding products.  You can add a 10 MHz clock to take performance to the next level.  The biggest issue is that it is DAC only so no volume control.  If you can live with that, it might be worth an audition.  

yyzsantabarbara
4,887 posts
 

@verdantaudio That sounds interesting. If you are a dealer for that unit lest talk a bit more offline. I will send you a DM later.

verdantaudio's avatar
verdantaudio
1,500 posts
 

@yyzsantabarbara I am a dealer now.  Several people had reached out to me and about the brand so I bought a sample.  It is as good as they described.  

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