2. digital
  3. 195470-196983

Do you recall "instant improvement" from your first stand-alone DAC ?

After weeks of research I recently ordered my first external DAC.  My system is modest by most accounts... Van Alstine SET400 amp, T-10 tube pre-amp, Salk HT2-TL speakers, WiiM Ultra streamer/DAC.  It sounds very good to me... resolving, clear, excellent bass, mids, highs. Then I started reading and asking about streamers and DACs and it seems my system could sound better. So I did a lot of reading and ultimately ordered a used Merason Frerot with factory wal wort power supply.  Now the anxiety of second-guessing my choice and what it will sound like in my system.  Cuz there are no stores near me to demo DACS.  Eventually I will likely upgrade the streamer.

 

What did you notice the most about your first stand-alone DAC... more clarity, richness, scary good vocals, extended highs, more airy highs, more and better bass ?  Better soundstage and imaging ? All the above ? 

foamcutter
sudnh
127 posts
 

My experience had been utter disappointment with standalone DACs until getting the Chord Qutest in 2018. 
 

then after trying multiple other standalone DACs I settled for the Soekris 1421 DAC as the best sounding in the under $2k DAC category. 
 

Finally found a DAC (the Soekris 1421) that with modern digital recordings sounded pleasing. This on my analogue optimized setup with a VPI classic turntable with linear tracking tone arm and dynavector cartridge. 

Finally!!

Post 2015 DACs and digital recordings are pleasing to listen to. 
 

pkatsuleas
286 posts
 

Actually, no. My first foray into a DAC was the Jolida Glass fx DAC.  Didn't like it much at all.  Then moved up to a Bluesound Node130.  It was definitely a step in the right direction.  Then added an Ares ll to bypass the Bluesound DAC and, viola!  Night and day difference!  Might try and upgrade the streamer at some point, but good for now.

overthemoon
490 posts
 

I have only used streaming DACs and each upgrade was significant. 

More to discover