Marantz HD-DAC1 vs Bel Canto DAC 1.x/2.x/3.x?


Hi,

Has anyone had the chance to compare the Marantz HD-DAC1 to any of the Bel Canto DACs?

The Marantz is $800, plays DSD, and has a headphone amplifier. It has a line out (into a preamp) and variable line out (hence can be used as a preamp).

The Bel Cantos range from $1,500-$4,500. No headphone amp. The amplification is digital (hence digital preamp), and feeds the amp directly.

Has anyone had a chance to listen to both makes and give some feedback as to the audio quality and characteristics differences?

Thanks!
zordex
One thing that helps a lot is a pro grade reclocker, eg: mutec smart clock, then add in balanced power and they really all sound pretty much the same as long as they use the same $5 DAC chip. The only place in DAC world that may be worth the dollar are custom DAC chips.