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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
audphile1's avatar
audphile1
4,766 posts
 

I used Bricasti M3 network card connected with high quality Ethernet cables for a while until I tried Aurender N200 via USB into the M3. Blew away using the network card. 
Internally, the M3 network card is connected to the board using I2S if I am not mistaken. In general, I2S was developed for internal connections and that is partly the reason why there’s no industry standard for thr pin configuration which in some units makes it a crapshoot selection a transport for it. Whether or not it’s the best connection is debatable. Fo me the USB out of N200 into M3 was in another league. 
 

So…when making blanket statements about what connection is best sounding you only show your lack of consideration and understanding of what the best connection on a given component is, out or in, for a particular listener, and why that is the case. Equipment compatibility and synergy is key. Especially for I2S that has more pin confirmations than California has raisins. Good luck to you. 

navyachts's avatar
navyachts OP
574 posts
 

@audphile1 amen!

tshark
20 posts
 

I’m a real nubie regarding the nuances of separates vs integrated units. I have McIntosh MA8900 integrated amp with DA2 upgrade, a Naim Uniti Core CD ripper streamer, and Luxman D 07X SACD player, along with Von Schweikert Endeavour speakers. All cables/interconnects are high end. 
How do I know if the MA8900 DA2 is (very) good?  Do I use the DAC within the Luxman?  Would a specialty DAC be a good investment with my current set up? R do basic components need upgrading?

THX 

TShark Dallas TX

Post removed 
fleschler
1,992 posts
 

@hysteve When I installed my Jay Audio transport, even poorly mastered/recorded CDs took on life whereby I am keeping them (I have 15,900 CDs). Where I thought there was distortion is now just bad miking or has poor quality digital transfers. The average CD sounds great and the outstanding recordings are phenomenal (and that’s with my highly modified Emotiva DAC only previously described). This may also have to do with my phenomenal speakers (Von Schweikert VR9 SE MK2, upgraded). I read some other posts extolling the new LAiV Harmony DAC. This could be a real bargain just as my transport is.  

I wouldn't suggest to the OP a lesser quality transport but I'm keeping a Shanling ET3 for my 2nd system/living room.  It's good for the price and I've compared many transports.  

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