2. digital
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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
fleschler
1,994 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.  

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
4,805 posts
 

@tshark I think your question deserves its own thread. 

tshark
20 posts
 

I’ll take some time tomorrow to figure out how to do that (post new thread). Thx for the encouragement. I’m looking for an answer that’s not another persons favorite component. I cant fault responders except say it doesn’t always appear to be pertinent to what was asked. 
 

I’ll try to be specific to my need. Thx. 

kennymacc
368 posts
 

My Ayre Acoustics QX-5 Twenty streaming DAC is a superb DAC, as well as a superb streamer.   Happy listening. 

mclinnguy's avatar
mclinnguy
411 posts
 

@worldwidewholesales

Great post with great advice-and it is commendable you didn’t give any specific manufacturer’s names. There is a good chance I will never in my life listen to 10% of the components you have,

I am curious if you could share what your current 3 demo songs are for your comparisons?

I wish more folks would realize and admit this is a journey of preferences.

It’s not a cage match of bests.

@tvad exactly. Which brings me to....

I do not recommend the Weiss, dry and hard compared to the others.

Dry and hard? I guess to my ears all the other DAC’s are too fat and slow?

As to cabling, I am using lower cost digital cabling from my transport (step above Blue Jeans which is very neutral and a steal at $35) similar to the Westminster Labs lower end digital cable.

Might be a contributing factor to a less than perfect audition?

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