DAC for Aurender N200
For past 2 years I have been running Aurender N200 into Musical Fidelity M6s DAC. The DAC is built like a tank and very versatile, but I must connect via coax since Aurender clock is superior to DAC clock.
Well, I am ready to upgrade DAC for SQ reasons and presently inclining to PSAudio MkII for US mfr, good reviews, good service, current bargain price.
Q1: What DAC (<$8k) would you consider an optimal match for the N200?
Q2: N200 has very few outputs compared with other streamers in its price class.
I know Aurender has always inclined to USB. All else being equal, is USB the best output?
@hickamore, my suggestion would be to audition the best DAC that you can afford and that sounds good to you. Streamers don’t mean a thing unless they’re sending the bits to an equivalently capable DAC. |
@adasdad Right, that is where this thread originated. I have researched every DAC mentioned, about 30 of them, and compiled my short list. Plan is to audition those available new within my budget, and if unsatisfied, try those on used market offering quick turnaround in case of dissatisfaction. That said, the bar is pretty low for audible improvement on my existing "legacy" DAC. |
@hickamore, which of the DACs that have been mentioned attract your attention the most? Are you looking for sonic accuracy, musicality, reference quality neutral presentation, or a shiny powered box that weighs 20lbs sitting somewhere near the rest of your gear? |
@adasdad Original question was specifically directed to other users of Aurender N200 with experience of various DACs connecting via USB. Got multiple hits for ARC Ref9, T+A DAC200, Denafrips Terminator 15, Bricasti M3. Yes I want musicality, but specifically also a more convincing soundstage and richer instrumental timbres. Already got a shiny powered box that looks just fine. Want a better one with OXCO. |
@hickamore, if I was looking for a DAC to pair with an Aurender N200 I’d seriously look at the Chord Dave. |
