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Used DACs in the 10k range

I currently have a denafrips terminator and I definitely enjoy it in my system but I haven't compared many dacs (only other dac I heard in my system was the one in the HDV 820 when I was using my headphones). I was impressed with the rave reviews and bought it straight up but now I am wondering if its worth upgrading or not.
I am looking to spend around 10k ish for a used DAC that would be significantly  better than the Terminator.

Any suggestions?
Also any thoughts on the terminator itself. It has lots of positive reviews from outlets like audiobacon and darko, 6 mooons etc but it has very harsh criticism from places like SBAF. Would appreciate your thoughts.
My system: PC -> Roon -> Sotm sms 200 ultra (with sps500) -> audio sensibility signature usb cable -> sotm dx usb -> ss d110 aes cable -> terminator -> kimber cables xlr -> He9 -> yyw hifi xlr -> 4bsst dual bryston monoblocks -> qed xt 40 speaker cables -> paradigm signature s8 v2 + dual PSA V1800s [v1800s via svs soundpath rcas]
smodtactical
david_ten
5,480 posts
 
@smodtactical  Most of my system development has been focused on getting the amplification right, followed by cables and speakers.

I've had a few folks in to listen and provide feedback as I've worked on moving my system forward. Not a single person has mentioned the DAC. There are other areas / components that have been pointed out.
Ag insider logo xs@2x
hk_fan
474 posts
 
Esoteric K-01x
audiotroy's avatar
audiotroy
3,815 posts
 
Sim,

Based on your system first question which preamp are you using?

One before I would even entertain getting a dac I would borrow a Innous Zenith and see how much better the Denefrips would sound when being fed an optomized signal.

As other people I think Uberwaltz have commented the standard PC even with a whole bunch of regenerative doodads still doesn't sound anywhere nearly as good as the Zenith.

Second:  I would look at getting a great preamp, we are not Backert Labs dealers but have heard their preamps are excellent, and a tube preamp makes a Bryston sound way better.

Third: I would upgrade the Paradigm Sigs long before I upgraded my dac.  The Signatures are wonderful speakers but are definatly showing their age vs newer loudspeakers.

Fourth: Power cables and power conditioning are you using any?

Dave and Troy
Audio Doctor NJ
shkong78's avatar
shkong78
1,485 posts
 
+ 1 to Audiotroy

OP can try better music server or CD transport.

The law of diminishing return is stiff for Dac.

I have been using EMMLab Dac2(paid 9K$ for new one) for 9 years.

It is time to upgrade but no easy choice under 20K$..

Also it is possible that some innovative Dac can come out in a year or two at reasonable price which may crush all existing Dacs.
cal18
45 posts
 
I want you to take the $80 challenge. If you buy it, you can always have it for a friend or a bathroom system. Topping D10. Impressive for small cheddar. 32k with opamps if you aren’t satisfied. The one included is well regarded. Zero snob appeal which makes it perfect lol.
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