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The Ultimate DAC for Approx $10,000

Hi There,

Over here in Australia, it's almost impossible to go and evaluate high quality DACS.

Therefore, I'm seeking advice from fellow Audiogoners for help with a new potential purchase.

Currently, here is my short list:

Audio Aero La Fontaine DAC
Meitner MA-1
dCS Debussy
Playback Designs MPD-3
AMR DP-777

I currently have an old 10 year old Audio Aero Capitole MKII which has served me well, but is showing it's age in terms of absolute detail, Bass tightness. Midrange is still excellent, coupled to a Supratek Cabernet Dual Pre-Amp, set of 300B SET amplifiers and WHT PR4 loudspeakers.

Feedback much appreciated.
clipsal
sounds_real_audio
1,013 posts
 
Add the Bricasti M1
mceljo
1,357 posts
 
How does a DAC show it's age? I don't think that the algorithm it uses changes over time so it's more likely that your getting bored and just want something new. If you can't evaluate it easily against other DACs how did you determine that it's no longer up to par?
clipsal OP
80 posts
 
I compared it to the AMR CD-77.1 and the AMR sounded absolutely fantastic on instrumentals and had tremendous detail and tight bass.

The AMR Basically relegated the old Audio Aero to the side lines.
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