Does a DAC need a large/strong power supply?

 

I am afraid that I don’t follow your reasoning. If he were to purchase the inexpensive DAC, he owns it. He can then do comparative listening over what ever period of time he chooses. There’s no better way than direct comparison in one’s own audio system.

Charles

Yeah @charles1dad ^that^ works.

The idea of hearing the voices of the angels in a shop, and having that be representative of what one would hear at home is a bit hopeful (IME).
A shop has a total advantage with the room, the content, etc.

But when two units can both be shown to measure well, then it is doubtful that there is a lot left to hear.

But when two units can both be shown to measure well, then it is doubtful that there is a lot left to hear

 

I understand this is your experience. I “very “ respectfully disagree.
Charles

I assumed we were talking about long term comparisons in one's own system. Quick A/B comparison in audio showrooms won't tell much. Don't want to go in depth on this, but I recall doing the quick A/B comparisons back in the day. Nearly every audio showroom had multiple components on display, all connected to switch board. Salesmen would do the old switcheroo on you, these guys were real magicians in fooling you into preferring most expensive components. This was good learning experience for a couple of budding audiophiles. Ever since then proponents of blind testing regime have caused a chuckle.

I understand this is your experience. I “very “ respectfully disagree.
Charles

I think that depends on what we are measuring.
For instance steady state tones will not show any filter ringing behaviour. But they should show noise and harmonic distortion. (Both of which should be low anyhow.)

By ‘overkill’ I guess you mean excellent power supply, possibly in a seperate box .  I believe power supply is a fundamental aspect in our hobby , so my answer is yes, final answer