Is the ''entry level'' DAC becoming extinct ?

One of the Best DAC for $$$$$ on market today TEAC UD 501 (DSD &
PCM)
Just for $850

Actually, I did have an HRT Streamer in my system for a week on loan, to my ears anyways, it was nowhere near as musical or as resolving as the DacMagic Plus. But then again, I had this on some pretty high-resolving speakers.

I still think that $600 to $ 1,200 is ''entry level'', considering the ridiculous prices going on in the ''high end''. I guess it all depends, as usual.

Some reviewers talk about ''entry level'' $ 3,000 phonostages and tonearms....

DAC's are amazing even on low priced gear these days. Just my opinion, but I see no need to look at expensive dacs anymoe(thousands of dollars), and usb is a must IMO

Mrtennis - there are some entry level tube DACs available, for example from Grant Fidelity (Chinese), Jolida (American, made in China) and Music Hall.

Grant Fidelity TubeDAC 11

Jolida FX Tube DAC

Music Hall DAC 25.3

I am sure there are more. Those are just the ones off the top of my head.

The D to A is still done by a SS chip (I think these all use Burr-Brown chips), but the output goes through a tube output state.

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Entry level preamps could be in trouble too. Last weekend I heard an Oppo 105 connected directly to an amp, it was outstanding.
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