bcgator; I can't argue with your logic. To clarify, I didn't mean to suggest I'd become opposed to integrateds with a DAC; simply that I would no longer be limiting my search to such units, exclusively. What you say makes a lot of sense, especially given the fact that my finances are limited and getting the most bang for my audio buck is always a top priority.
Pros & Cons of Buying an Integrated with Built-in DAC?
I'm currently looking at integrateds. Ideally, I'd like the next one to be my last and I'm wondering whether I need to purchase one with an internal DAC to provide flexibility for computer audio should I be compelled to go that route in the future. Will today's DACs be outmoded 3 years from now? Am I better off waiting to buy a separate DAC until I really need one? I'm confused. Technology is speeding up and my middle aged brain is slowing down!
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Integrated amps like the new ARC and Mark Levinson have excellent built in dacs and quite good phonostages. If you are interested in very high quality and not into the upgrade game you will have a lifetime of enjoyment with this level of gear. Also the devialet product offers excellent dac/streaming and phonostage options in one nice package (Micromega also has a new integrated option). |
you could consider something like the Vinnie Rossi ILO http://vinnierossi.com/. Its a modular system that in the future you could pop in a new dac or something else that comes along. makes the whole upgrade path easier as you don't have to change the whole box and can but modules as budget allows. not to mention its a capacitor based system so runs separate from your ac line. I've been eyeing them for a year now just saving funds. But in the interm I picked up a Luxman L560 form 1986 that's wonderful (50wpch Pure class A) so don't count out quality older stuff. |
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