High output DAC?


Greetings from Spain

I wonder if anyone can tell me the output levels of some DACs:
I need a high output, balanced DAC.
My line stage has a weak gain even using balanced in/out (Audio Research Ref 3) and I'm dissapointed at having to increase the volume to get response from the preamp. (my phono preamp drives it better!)

I have now the Krell Stealth, but seems to be also weak (maybe 2 v max on balanced?) I tested the Theta Pro Basic II balanced and liked it, but couldn't keep because of the price asked.

Any info is really appreciated.
Thanks!
Marcelo
marcelo_cinicola
The highest output DAC I've ever had in my system was the Weiss Medea. It has 2 output levels and trim pots for more exact settings. Max output voltage is about 15V if I recall correctly. Before you spend your money on a new DAC consider that the sound quality of a DAC's outputs is likely to be less than that of a tube preamp. IMO you could get better results for your money by finding a tube preamp with the proper gain.
Thanks JazzDude, my problem started the minute I changed the LS25MK2 for the Reference 3. That is, volume control "problem".
Awfully low gain the Ref3 has, however, I could swear that the LS25, inspite of having a +18db gain (6db more than the REF3), did not sound as good as the new one.
Besides, I cannot afford changing my line stage, it is only 6 monthes old...
brgds, marcelo
The Wadia 27 has adjustable output voltage. It can pump it out if you need to.
Thanks Rja, I wonder how high the Wadia goes? And the Audio Aero?
Anyhow, I just bought a Theta ProBasic IIIa from a fellow A'goner (thanks RRoss!).
Will get it here by the end of the week (USPS provided) and will update the results/changes against the Krell Stealth (wich will be for sale right after).

I have a friend that bought an AA Capitole MKII and is deeply in love.
He feeds directly a Pass X150, then into a pair of JMLab Mezzo Utopia, and cannot get it below -25 db on the display without being unlistenable loud. But, it is an integrated, the Prima is a DAC I guess?

Thanks both!
brgds, Marcelo