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Good DAC for Home Studio

I'm new to DACs.  I just got a NAD C399 which comes equipped with a 32 bit/384kHz ESS Sabre DAC.  I'm just getting used to it in our living room with new speakers.  Everything sounds good.

I also have a home music studio with studio monitor speakers.  I would like to add a DAC to this equipment as well.  I've been testing out a Schiit Modi 3+.  It sounds OK, but not as good as the 32-bit/384kHz ESS Sabre DAC.

I realize that the sky's the limit on good DACs.  I'm just wondering if there are any good mid priced DACs I should be considering for the home studio.

Please let me know if you have any suggestions.  Thanks!

pacificm
ditusa's avatar
ditusa
1,883 posts
 

@tony1954 +100

Mike

pacificm OP
14 posts
 

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!

tony1954's avatar
tony1954
1,037 posts
 

@pacificm 

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

Lots of great reviews available everywhere.

ditusa's avatar
ditusa
1,883 posts
 

@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

pacificm OP
14 posts
 

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!

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