Looking for my first DAC

JD,  If you don't already have a feel for this, I encourage you to figure out what it is you want or expect from your system and where you may want to take it.

Reading through the various DAC threads will be helpful.

For example, [ONLY for example purposes, and because both are widely discussed on this forum] Border Patrol and Benchmark represent different 'sound' and 'presentations' and approaches.

Once you have determined which camp(s) you may be interested in, recommendations will be more on the mark.

 

mzkmxcv,

Thanks for the suggestions.  I'll be sure to look at them tonight.

JD

Hey MrD,

The Acoustat model X's have their own proprietary servo amps. they are hybrid opamp - tube. 

I look for your post with great interest.

Thanks.

JD

@curiousjim

https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/smsl-su-8-version-2-balanced-dac.5433/pag...

Follow steps for a discount on the RME, if that’s the DAC you want of course.

Do you require multiple inputs and/or volume control? Will the DAC be used for Redbook only or MQA/HiRes playback?