One Box CD Units vs Transport & DAC


As a result of various Audiogon forums, I have managed to over the last 2 years put together a respectable home theatre. Setup includes Cal Audio 2500 Gear for the DVD, Amp, & SSP. Aerial 10 fronts, Vienna Accoustics Center, Rel Sub, & Cardas Gold cableing.

Currently the Cal DVD is pulling double duty as a CD player.
I listen exclusively to Redbook material.

The question I have is regarding DAC's. Why are DAC's that are 4 to 5 years old sell at 25 to 30 percent of their original sales price while CD players in the same age range seem to be holding 50 to 60 percent of their sales price. This type of pricing disparity makes it tempting to get one of the nicer DAC's, (Classe, Wadia, Audio Research) and utilize the DVD player as the transport. Overall however if one were building a system from the ground up, would be interested in hearing opinions of a transport/DAC route versus one Box CD players. Put another way with a budget of $1,500 for used equipment, whats going to deliver the biggest bang for the buck. Thanks.
Ag insider logo xs@2xmattkimb96
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IMP, Phasecorrect's analysis is "correct". the Classe' is a 20 bit unit and I do not believe that it oversamples, not a 24/96 or 24/192. If your pre handles and passes a balanced signal, the Classe' might be the way to go. There is also a Muse Model 2 up for sale right now at $500.
i agree with phasecorrect.

there has been a quantam leep in digital technology. there are some great one boxes that are cheaper than older dacs and sound better.

btw, the muse up for sale does not have balanced input.

good luck !!!

mike