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DAC under $1K

Has to sound noticably better than the CD players I already have, ie. Philips CD-80 & CAL Tercet MKIII. Will use the CD-80 as transport. Tried AVA Omega & Fet Valve DAC's in the past & these are no better than what I have. Never heard, but am familiar with by reading reviews, etc. with Ack, Attraction, DAC AH, used Classe DAC-1, etc. I am DIY ready if the DAC AH is worth the bother of rebuilding? Using DIY 2A3 Loftin-White amp & Klipsch KLF-20 speakers.
5u4
restless_times
20 posts
 
The New PS Audio Digital Link III is amazing. USB Input, Balanced Outputs, Upsampling and no op-amps. And can be had for under 1K.
tobias
1,534 posts
 
An Apogee DA-1000E like mine.
5u4 OP
10 posts
 
Thanks for your suggestions. A few of these I never heard of, like the Lavry DA10, etc., will look into these. As far as sound, dynamic bass, transparent mids & smooth highs + analog sound, leaning towards the mellow side, definately nothing bright.
restock
831 posts
 
As far as sound, dynamic bass, transparent mids & smooth highs + analog sound, leaning towards the mellow side, definitely nothing bright.

The Lavry probably has the most natural smooth highs, I have heard from digital solid state. It is overall very neutral, not quite as reverberant sounding as the Audio Aero. The Audio Aero is more forward, more colored sounding, but also has more swing. Still haven't explored all transport variations with the Lavry.

Also, if you are considering CD players: The Audio Aero Prima and Rega Apollo are close to your desired sound.
gmood1
1,251 posts
 
"As far as sound, dynamic bass, transparent mids & smooth highs + analog sound, leaning towards the mellow side, definately nothing bright."

You may find the Mhdt Paradisea NON OS tubed output Dac to your liking. You can find them on Ebay from time to time for $499 plus shipping. They go fast..so you have to check regularly to snatch one up. The Dac is very transport dependent. So the better the upstream clocking.. the better the Dac.
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