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DAC Suggestions

I’m in the market for a new stand alone DAC upgrade from my current Border Patrol which is fed by my Innuos Zenith Mark III server.. My budget is $3K - $6K new  only & like the natural, minimally “ digital” sound of my existing one but would like some more detail, a bit tighter bass & better imaging while not sounding fatiguing like many high end systems I’ve heard. Some reviewers suggest that a non over sampling DAC is usually the best way to achieve this, what do you folks think? 

Does such a unit in this price range exist in anyone’s experience? 
 

Thanks for your help. 

jonwolfpell
jonwolfpell OP
391 posts
 

Thanks very much for all the recommendations- the hunt begins. I’ll be in the Chicago area to visit a relative the weekend of Axpona so I’ll go at least one day & hope to check some of them out there..

bluethinker's avatar
bluethinker
184 posts
 

@jonwolfpell - Based on your criteria, the Merason Dac1 would be a great fit. Read the reviews. I own it and can attest to what the reviewers say - “relaxed but detailed,” “musical vs analytical.” One review compares it favorably to your current Dac. 

BTW - It is a non-oversampling Dac.

 

cbrez
63 posts
 

Take a look at the Weiss 204. I have not upgraded the PS yet, but I plan to, and even now, the tonality and dynamics are wonderful. I think with an LPS upgrade it will only get another level.

choiceaudio's avatar
choiceaudio
57 posts
 

Merason Reuss DAC just came in. Its awesome - great soundstage and very musical. It is close to the DAC1

jonwolfpell OP
391 posts
 

Merason DACS look great. I will definitely be checking them & the Bricasti’s at Axpona. Thanks everyone!

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