2. digital
  3. 190717-38070

Relaxed/Analog sounding DAC for under $10k (used or new)

Hi all. I'm currently using an Allnic D5000 DHT DAC which I got to replace a denafrips Pontus II not too long ago. While I do enjoy this dac, it can sound a bit forward in higher frequencies at times and can get a bit fatiguing. The 3A5 tubes are a bit finicky and don't last especially long either. It seems to sound best with coax input and with native DSD files, but my streamer only has USB output, and I exclusively stream via Qobuz with no DSD albums, so I'm not sure it's the best long term match from a synergy standpoint for me. I get the feeling that it was designed around being used primarily with a CD transport, which is not something I am interested in ever adding to my system.

My primary listening setup is centered around analog vinyl playback, so that tends to be my point of reference. I prefer laid back and musical sound versus striving for absolute detail retrieval that can sometimes come off a bit too clinical or harsh to me.

Going through various threads, some things stick out to me - T+A D200, SW1X, etc. I've also heard some Lampizator DACs that I liked (though mostly their very high end models that are outside my budget). I know typically people recommend R2R for a more 'analog' experience, but I also know that that is not the end-all-be-all with DACs, and implementation and intention matters a fair amount more. There are some DAC manufacturers that design their DACs around being used with CDs and don't care for streaming, so their performance is not optimized for use with streaming, etc.

Please do not turn the thread into a debate about the merits of R2R vs D-S. Not really relevant to me and I am mainly looking to see what ideas people toss at me.

Anyway, as a TL;DR, looking for a DAC that satisfies these points:

1. Leaning more musical/analog sounding, with a focus on laid back sound that is non-fatiguing;
2. wide soundstage and fantastic imaging;
3. Optimized for PCM streaming audio + USB input;
4. Ideally under $10k (new or used);
5. Black chassis option

Thanks!

128x128mmcgill829
psnyder149's avatar
psnyder149
158 posts
 

Used mola mola tambaqui should definitely be considered.  It plays great with Innuos.

finleyville
16 posts
 

+1 brianlucey

I also believe the Bricasti M1 SE is great for your situation.  While I love the Chord DAC sound, it will not be a good match for you. 

 

g2the2nd
52 posts
 

https://www.borderpatrol.net/dac/

 

Sounds like a use case for the Border Patrol DAC.

jmeyers's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
jmeyers
163 posts
 

I recommend the Bricasti M1 Series II, which is the successor to their M1 SE. That DAC incorporates the same Delta-Sigma DAC as my far more costly Bricasti M21. Before I bought my M21, I listened to more than a dozen of the “better” DACs, and the Bricasti stood out in performance as well as performance-to-value. 
 

Good luck in finding your dream DAC!

mmcgill829's avatar
mmcgill829 OP
150 posts
 

I appreciate all the of feedback so far! Been busy coordinating an upcoming move so haven't had a whole lot of time to check in lately.

Seems like the Bricasti M1 and Tambaqui are recommended quite often at this price point. The issue with the latter is the lack of black case. Unfortunately, I won't even be able to consider something that isn't offered in all black. Weird hangup, I suppose, but its a matter of WAF, so to speak.

Chord DACs from my understanding tend to be a little more 'hifi' sounding and not really a relaxed feel to them. This is at least what I've gathered from a lot of reviews, various forums posts, etc.

More to discover