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Best DAC under $2K

I am transfering my cd colection to an external 500 GB hard drive using the I-tunes program (WAV files). Need an DAC to connect to my main system (Linn Ikemi, Kudos, Kairn-Pro, Klouts & Keltiks). Since my computer has a digital coaxial output I am not limited to an USB DAC, but will consider using an USB one. I am looking at the Bel Canto DAC2. Any other DAC in this price range? Any help will be very much appreciated.
hepl
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
The Benchmark DAC-1 in it latest version is hard to beat. Comparables are: Stello and Northstar. The Northstar has I2S input which can be a great advantage if you plan to use a USB to I2S converter later with your computer. I do not make any of these, but I do mod them.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
Manufacturer/modder
yioryos's avatar
yioryos
723 posts
 
Another vote fot the Northstar.
George
hepl OP
147 posts
 
Jayboard,

I do use my Ikemi and love it. My plan is to use the I-tunes program and a DAC to have music when I have friends over (Don't want to have them all over my cds or gear). I once wrote to Linn suggesting a replacement for the Numerik, a 24/192 DAC in an LK case. I feel that there is a market for it. Regards,
bryanp
42 posts
 
I vote for the ACK dAck 2.0. For me it just sounds right.
Chris is a great person to deal with.
http://www.ack-industries.com/
benie
147 posts
 
Go for the Benchmark DAC 1 , you won't be disappionted.
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