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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
westborn
154 posts
 

@navyachts - could very well be. I’m not sure how the reviewer compensation or accommodation works nowadays.

Although chips and DAC tech and architecture are obviously excluded (duh), my observation was more of a frustration with mini products with higher prices in this inflation-driven world.

And a disclosure - aesthetically, I just prefer standard 17"-19" components in my main system|rack. I have and love a Musetec DA-005 with lots of power supply regulation. It is a delta/sigma ES9038 Pro based DAC and weighs almost 25 pounds. So it could kick any 8 pound, half width DAC’s butt !! LOL ☺

goose
693 posts
 

The LAiV Dac caught my eye even though it's a Dac from China.  I would just have trouble putting major dollars into a Dac with a technology that seems to change a lot with better products.  

navyachts's avatar
navyachts OP
616 posts
 

@goose @westborn it seems to be a case of "Flavor of the Week' with DACs these days! I fell for the R26 hype, which is also small in size & off-shore.          Like you, I prefer a full-size chassis.

ervikingo
153 posts
 

@westborn i try not to go by size and heft alone.  I have a Theta Data transport which is hefty and huge.  Then I had to service it and it turns out it is a repackaged Phillips or Pioneer unit.....

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