The best cheaper DAC I’ve heard is the Audio-GD R2R 2 Ladder DAC in NOS mode. I can’t recommend high enough
Comparison of latest DAC chips
I own a Bluesound Node 2i which greatly improved sound after I added the Cat 6 cable. I do not own a separate DAC but am told it would be the next step improvement. I have done enough reading that it appears the two latest chips are the Sabre or ESS
ES9038PRO
and the AK4499. The brands I have looked at are Sabaj d5($469) and a Topping D90($699). I saw a great review on Audiocircle of the Sabaj D5 which is now a year old. The Topping D90 is newer and I hear the build quality of the Topping as well as customer service are both better. Other brands cost more and most don't use these new chips.
Is there a difference in how these chips sound? I would appreciate any comments.
Is there a difference in how these chips sound? I would appreciate any comments.
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- 122 posts total
I have a Denafrips Ares 2 R2R dac. I really enjoy the music from it. But as said earlier in this thread - Implementation of the chips is more important. How is the total pkg.? Does the DAC play well with your other components? I like that the Ares 2 is a stand alone DAC Oh, I also have a Node 2i, I use it now just as a streamer. |
https://www.schiit.com/reviews/modi-1 It’s only $99 - worth every penny IMHO. Try it out - keep it for a second system, it’s a win win. |
I was looking for an inexpensive DAC to extend the life of a Sony X303ES CD Player and the Schiit Modi 3, with its AKM 4490 DAC chip and DC-coupled output, was exactly what I was looking for. I actually like it better than the Peachtree DAC-iTx and Rega DAC-R that I briefly owned. At $99, I consider the Modi 3 a real bargain and an easy recommend. |
- 122 posts total