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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
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.
mitch2
4,003 posts
 
How about the Lenehan Audio PDX DAC? It is close to home for you.
http://www.lenehanaudio.com.au/pdx.php
clipsal OP
80 posts
 
Thanks Mitch, but was hoping to stick to the ones noted above.
teajay
1,691 posts
 
Hi Clipsal,

I have auditioned three of the DACS you have on your list. I only listen to Redbook CD's and by far the best DAC I have ever heard on Redbook is the Concert Fidelity reference DAC-040. Take a look at my review here on AudioGon for details why it finally replaced the wonderful Accustic Arts Reference Tube Hybrid in my system.
kennyt's avatar
kennyt
1,226 posts
 
I'd add the EMM Labs Dac 2 SE, which has an 'x' level upgrade coming that will make it better than the XSD-1. The Meitner MA-1 is a likely cheaper version but with less power supply and after the x update way different outputs states.
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