Good DAC for Home Studio

There are lots of good DACs available.

But first, the fact that your NAD contains an ESS Sabre DAC is not the determinant of the sound. It is the sum of the design and all the other components. So, while the really inexpensive DACs may have a similar sound, that is no indicator that other, better DACs will. The sound quality It is the result of every aspect of the DAC. .

So, for a budget DAC, I highly recommend a Schiit Yggdrasil or the less expensive Gungnir. These are great values for the money. I helped a friend get a Yggdrasil for his modest main system and in the process got a Gungnir for my small office system. Very detailed and natural sounding for the money.

Benchmark dac's are studio gear that people use at home, or mytek, same reason.

@pacificm what's your budget?

So the Schiit Yggdrasil at $2,299.00 is a budget DAC, even though the OP selected the Modi 3 at $129.00 as his first option?

As Marie Antoinette said. "Let them eat cake."

@tony1954 +100

Mike

I started out testing the Schiit Modi 3+ because I saw reviews that said it was the best value for the money.  The $2,299 Yggdrasil is beyond my budget.  My budget is more in the $1,000 range.

Above, the Gungnir is mentioned.  I've found it difficult to locate - even on the Schiit site or learn much about.  Any more information about it anyone might have?

Thanks!

@pacificm 

With a $1,000 budget I would suggest looking at the Denafrips Ares II.

Lots of great reviews available everywhere.

@pacificm Wrote:

Above, the Gungnir is mentioned. I’ve found it difficult to locate - even on the Schiit site or learn much about. Any more information about it anyone might have?

It’s discontinued! Look at the Bifrost.

Mike

I just retuned the Schiit Modi 3+.  Above the Gungnir was mentioned as being satisfactory and then later it was noted that it was discontinued and the Schiit Bitfrost was suggested for consideration.

I looked at the Bitfrost and ordered one for a test.  I like the fact that the Schiit product is built in the USA and I also liked its modular design for future upgrades.  After ordering it I was informed that delivery on them is currently scheduled for 10-12 weeks.  So, I'll have a wait until it arrives.  I'm looking forward to giving it a test.  It was in the price range I was considering.  But, the proof is in the punch - how it sounds.

Thanks for all the great comments and suggestions!

I think Benchmark DAC's are what you are looking for in a DAC. For an interface check Black Lion Revolution 2x2:

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1617788-REG/black_lion_audio_revolution_2x2_usb_type_c.html?ap=y&smp=y&msclkid=ecb7bce1984e14337683d87eb21cf994

I began this thread a few months ago in search of a good DAC for my studio.  I ended up getting a Schiit Bifrost 2/64 and I'm very satisfied with it.  The sound is great.  Plus I like the fact that it is upgradable and updatable.  It seems like this would help ensure more of a lifetime of use as technology changes rather than getting completely locked into any one device without any capability of keeping up with the technology.  Also, I liked the fact that it is made in the USA.  I'm concerned about all the offshoring of our industry and it's encouraging to support a company that is actually creating work for our own people.  Hope that helps!