Best EXTERNAL DAC suggestions


Yes, I have the latest addition to the Bluesound node, I guess third generation, prior to the most recent anniversary X addition. I know they have improved the inner DACS with each version but now I’m asking what would be some thing better in your opinion and one that is in the ballpark.

I have Cornwall Heritage IV speakers, and I am currently running a NAD C 316BEE amp( which pairs well with Klipsch 102 db) at 40 WPC. In the winter my Mancave is heated by a tube Cary SLI-80, UL /Triode 4/8 OHMS. 
either way, I love the ability of the Bluesound node to be my preamp and facilitating my Apple Airplay 2 and the eArc into the TV/CD. Mancave is treated, speakers and me complete a 6’ triangle.

128x128moose89

Moose89,

If you are getting the Ares II used and for a great deal, it's a really good DAC for the money. The internal DAC in the Node 130 (3rd generation) is much improved over the 2, and 2i versions, but the Ares II will be a very noticeable upgrade.

SPDIF refers to the topology of the signal, and usually comes in 2 flavors: digital RCA (digital coax) connectors, or optical  The Node 130 has both coaxial RCA and optical SPDIF digital out connectors, so no problem connecting with the Ares II. NOTE: The digital RCA cables are not the same as RCA cables used for analog audio interconnects.

If you later want to upgrade any cables at a reasonable cost: Lavricables, DHLabs, Zavfino, Morrow Audio, and Supra Cables (actually found on eBay) all make great cables and have many affordable options.

FWIW, if I’m you my next move would be to a Denafrips Ares 12th Anniversary DAC with a good digital cable. The reason is this version comes with an i2S input so you can later add a DDC (like the Denafrips Iris) and get a further significant performance bump.

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/650003588-denafrips-ares-12th-1-all-aluminum-chasis-with-hifi-tuning-supreme-fuse/

For a digital cable I’d highly recommend the Acoustic Zen MC2 (read reviews) that I recently bought used and was a huge upgrade over a good but budget digital cable, and if you’re patient they can be found used on hifishark for around $200 and very well worth every penny. These two purchases will launch you to a higher performance level entirely.  Just my $0.02 FWIW.

 

@vthokie83 Vthokie83

thank you so much for educating me about digital cable. I’m still not clear on how the node 130 connects but I’m sure I can call Crutchfield. It sounds like one end of the RCA is analog and the other end must be digital? Because I know the node has, an RCA looking output.? So the node needs to find its way to the Digital imput  of/to the Denefrips Aries ll. 
 

 

@spawn350 

thanks yes I looked up ACRO 10000T. Nice machine. I wish it had a remote where I could change the friendly preset channels while I stream which is what I love about the Bluesound node.