DAC RECOMMENDATIONS PLEASE


Hello,

Presently my system is: Qobuz > Lumin U1 Mini Streamer > Electrocompaniet ECD-1 Dac > Herron VTSP-3A (R03) Pre > Odyssey Khartago Extreme Amp > KEF r11 Speakers.

The ECD-1 dac is 20 years old. I've had issues with this dac at times not playing 24/192 music at all even though its rated to handle it. Recently I've had to adjust settings in the Lumin to play 24/192 music at 24/96 in order for it to play. So, I want to replace it with something using a bit more current technology. My budget is 1800.00 for something used.

To my ears, the KEF r11 is a very detailed and revealing speaker. Well recorded music sounds great. Poorly recorded music sounds very poor and again to me, that means edgy and fatiguing highs. I'm looking for a warm and musical presentation. Things I've done to lean in that direction are getting the Herron pre and adjusting the bias of the Khartago towards a warmer sound also.

Dacs I've been studying have been R2R NOS dacs like Border Patrol, Denefrips Pontus II, and others. I also have looked at the Schiit Yggy LIM.  So I'd love to hear from anyone who perhaps has had a similar quest and what was found to fit the warm and musical goal. Thanks for any comments!

JM

jfmerk

The Music Room is selling factory refurbished PS Audio DirectStream Mk 1's with latest software update for $2000. Factory warranty for 1 year. That's a $6k unit. I got one and it is like brand new. Oh, and there's TMR's normal return policy so you can try it without risk. I don't know what would be a better opportunity at that price.

 

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just wait for @soix 

He’s going to ask you Again, this totally depends on what sound characteristics you’re looking for

he’s the expert but we don’t know his background  😂😂😂😂

@ghdprentice Oh, THAT Bard.  Yes, now I get it.  I have been surprised at the quality of GenAI responses, though I use ChatGPT.  Need to strike up a relationship with Bard!