2. digital
  3. 164786-143982

Need DAC Ideas

Some of you have heard many different DACs and can help me
put together the best possible line up of DACs from $1.8 to $3.9k.

In order for the comparison to be of maximum value I need to hear
only from those who have had some direct comparison experience.

There are probably 30 companies offering a product in this range. 
I am looking for musicality and value as opposed to say the last word
in accuracy.

Some Possibles:

1. Line Magnetic  $2.2
2. Audio Mirror Tubadour 3 $1.9 
3. Denafrips Pontus $1.8
4. Holo Audio  Spring 3 $2.8
5. Doge 7 $2.3
6. Wired for Sound 2V2  $2.5.
7. Audio Note (kit) 4.1X $3.8
8. Lampizator Amber $3.5 
9. Schiit Yggy $2.5

Once the top 8-10 are identified and gathered there will be an
opportunity for anyone interested to sit in on the comparison. 

Please respond with your brand experience.
JJSS in particular.

Thank you


chorus
stuartk
2,830 posts
 
Oops -  I apologize for posting the wrong price on the La Voce III  ! 

I bought mine from Alex at Alma Music in San Diego but it seems they no longer carry Aqua. A pity, as they sent me a demo model to try out before buying, which sold me on the unit. 

Here is contact info for the current US distributor from the Aqua site:

Scott Wylde
Arcadia Audio Marketing
Phone: +1 416 994 5571
arcadiaaudio@gmail.com

Scott might know of another US retailer willing to send you a demo unit. 

John Darko's review of La Voce S 2:: 
https://darko.audio/2015/09/aqua-hifi-la-voce-s2-review-new-tricks-from-an-old-dog/

John Darko's review of La Voce S 3:  
https://darko.audio/2018/03/aqua-hifi-announce-la-voce-s3-dac/

Good luck on your search ! 
 
stuartk
2,830 posts
 
The above "review" of the S3 is more of a press release.

However, there are various other reviews of the S3, including:

https://www.6moons.com/audioreviews2/aqua4/1.html





jbhiller's avatar
jbhiller
1,417 posts
 
I own the Doge 7 Tube Dac. I haven’t heard the others on your list. They have strong reputations. It’s a good time to be in the market as you have so many great options!

I recommend the Doge without reservation.

You might want to add the new Primaluna Tube DAC. I haven’t heard it, but it looks compelling at $3k.


chorus OP
976 posts
 
Thanks. I will look into the Prima Luna and the Aqua line.

The Doge seems to be the cat's Pajamas!

I have a goal of gathering together the top ten under $5k
for a listening opportunity for anyone who cares.

big_greg
6,634 posts
 
+1 For the Aqua La Voce S3. I bought a used one recently for $2500. Very detailed and natural sounding. 
More to discover