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Best DAC

Hey Audiogon,

This is my first post here.  I've been doing quite a bit of research and am looking for a DAC for my system.

My laptop will be the source.  I already have an Audio Research pre-amp that I find to be the best for my listening preferences.  So, I really don't need the DAC to do anything besides convert... no pre-amp or headphone amp needed.

I would like the most neutral DAC possible, and am tempted to check out the Benchmark DAC1 USB or DAC2.  I also like the Bel Canto DAC2 for its simplicity.  I will probably be looking on the used market at anything under $1000.  Of course, the greater the value, the better.

Overall, I am looking for the most neutral DAC possible because I believe that my pre-amp, amp and speakers should be the components coloring the music.  I see people mentioning that the benchmarks are too "harsh" or "revealing" but I think that may be cleared up by the pre-amp.  We won't know until its in the system, but I want to make an educated purchase.

Any input is greatly appreciated.  Thank you
mr_sacrimoni
philipwu
214 posts
 

mr_sacrimoni ,

the Regen is highly recommended between DAC and source if you're listening through USB audio. many forums I came across reported great improvements(regen) while I was researching for other traditional 2 channel DACs, although I don't know how Regen works. this thing make a average DAC sound much better.

just my 2 cents

kot
133 posts
 
Try IFI Micro IDSD if you are able...Its about $450. You will be pleasantly surprised me thinks.... Just keep an open mind and ears when you listen to it... You have to let it break in for at least 400 hours, then it really shows its full potential of state of the art sound, price be damned .... Don’t use preamp function thou for the best sonics....
ilkeresmer
42 posts
 
How about to look Wyred 4 Sound Dac 2-se , it seems really good
moemoney's avatar
moemoney
158 posts
 
You may want to look into the Bryston BDA-3 which just came out. It has all the inputs you would ever need, I have the BDA-1 and to my ears it sounds pretty   good. In fact I have the BDA-3 on order. It should  arrive the end of this month. I'm just moving up to the  latest. 
rspyder
98 posts
 
I'd stay clear of BelCanto.  I have a pair of BC amps and have had problems with them.  Called Bel Canto and left three VM's and sent numerous emails to arrange a fix - no response.  Went back to the dealer where I got them and the dealer dropped the BC line for ther same reason: they build but they don't support.
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