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DacMagic - Now What

I've really enjoyed my DacMagic, especially when listening to hi res downloads but I think I am ready to move up a notch or two.

Is the new Rega Dac a big move up? What are some great options in the $800 - $1,500 range? I like using the digital out from my MacBook headphone jack (stereo mini to Toslink on the Dac) and Decibel as my Flac player.

Looking for even more smoothness and musical sound...
stickman451
smholl
190 posts
 
I went from the DacMagic to the Wyred4Sound DAC-1. Was a major step up in my system.
plato
1,543 posts
 
I'd go with the Wyred 4 Sound DAC-1 as well. The latest ones have the asynchronous 24/192 USB input.
kbarkamian
647 posts
 
The Rega DAC is a very big step up IMO. I had the DACmagic in my system for a bit. Wasn't close. Others have disagreed. Can't really see why, but who am I to say they're wrong?

The other DACs mentioned should also be a good improvement. I like the Rega DAC the most, hence why I bought it. System synergy will make or break any component, including DACs.
tobias
1,534 posts
 
The Mood 100D ( at about the same price! ) would be an upgrade from the DACMagic.

The Moon 300D is a lot more expensive. Upgrading to that would be really worthwhile, though, because it would keep you happy a long time.
warjarrett
105 posts
 
Can anyone describe in what ways all these DACs sound different? When I compare DACs, I also compare to my somewhat expensive MC cartridge/arm/turntable/step-up/preamp, and every DAC I've tried just doesn't come close to me. Actually, my very old Theta Gen-5 sounds fine. They all sound compressed and they lack realism. I am thinking a DacMagic will be only a tiny bit different than an "upgrade" from there, for $500 to $2000 less. But I would like to know what others think about this. What are the specific sonic benefits of upgrading DAC that you all get excited about?
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