Berkeley DAC Series 1, anything better 2.5K$


Hey guys,

I am about to plunge for a used Berkeley DAC Alpha Series 1 that will set me back by $2200.

I have heard it in comparison with Benchmark and there is no comparison. I did A/B test it with the Series 2, but did not think the difference was worth paying 3000$ extra.

However before taking the plunge I was wondering if there are any other DACs < 2.5K that might beat the Series 1 (its pretty old).

There are so many DACs and so little time so thought someone hear might be able to help. Am I making a big mistake overlooking the new kids on the block (QuteHD or Yamamoto) that might outperform the venerable Berkeley Alpha Series 1.

Looking forward to hearing your opinions.
essrand
I just got the NAD M51 and it's awesome....After spending the last week with it all I can say it was money well spent. It was the final (for now anyway) piece in an almost complete system upgrade. I love the remote volume, polarity,and source selection that it offers, not to mention it's the best sounding source I've ever owned. 24 bit recordings sound incredible but all material sounds great through it. It pretty much had everything I was looking for, not cheap but worth every penny. Stereophile Class A+ $$$ recommended and was in the company of products five to ten times the price.
Essrand,

I don't do USB. I have a PS Audio transport. I spin discs. The old fashioned way.

Oddiofyl,

I second your observations.
You won't beat the Berkeley with 2500 bucks. It can be beat, but not for that much money.
Cerrot,
Based on the responses posted here some would disagree. It's hard to
know what someone else will prefer given we all hear differently and have
individual taste. A friend who I trust finds the Berkeley is some what clinical
and analytical, someone else would say that he's completely wrong. This is
just how subjective matters go.
I understand that. I just replaced my berkeley with the k03. Not sure if I will part with it, but if I do, I know no one can by a better dac for the two grand I may sell it for. Silly to think any 1500 dac can come close.