DAC options to consider for Innuos streamer


I currently listen to music through Qobuz with an Innuos Zen Mini Mk III as a server and Roon core.  Rather than the Mini DAC I use the DA2 DAC module in my McIntosh MA8950 integrated amp.  My speakers are Sonus faber Olympica Nova IIIs.  I enjoy the sound quality of this system.

 

When I upgrade my streamer to an Innuos Pulsar, what DACs might I consider that would be an upgrade from the DA2 module and would complement my system?

jrdavisphd

I’m also in the market for a Pulsar to pair with my Denafrips Terminator Plus, which I also recommend highly. Just a clarification to Mitch’s comments, Innuos will have different output modules available for the Pulsar very soon. At least that is what I’ve been told by Innuos. I’m waiting on the I2s module to pair with my Terminator and understand that spdif modules will also be available. So if you need or prefer something besides a usb output from your new Pulsar, options are coming.  I’d also be careful adding a ddc to the Pulsar, which already comes with a reclocker built-in.  Based on what I’ve read a 2nd reclocker could cause a problem.

I have the Pulsar and run it USB into a Lampizator Atlantic TRP.  The Lampizator just takes a smidgen of the edge off the focal Sopra 3 berillium tweeter.  It is rich with the toped sparkle.

USB to Denafrips IRIS to Pontus II via I2S, surperb combo for less than a Terminator.

I have an Innuos Zenith and use a Merason Reuss DAC, I have been very pleased with this combination. I recently swapped in a WireWorld Platinum USB cable, I cannot overstate how much difference this made, a massive improvement. Point being, don’t skimp on the cable when you in the next DAC.