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....
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
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
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- 15 posts total
- 15 posts total