Price is not a factor in sound obviously. But depending on any component, there can be significant differences in sonic quality. To some degree this can be a really big improvement. Someone mentioned something about profit, yeah make something and sell it and then tell me how much profit you think you will make! I make DHT DAC & preamps, the parts alone in my DAC are $3K not including the chassis, shipping box, etc. As mb1audio02 says, " $32K DAC sound that different from a $1K DAC?" Yes. So how will my DAC compete 5 years from now? Good question. My answer would be I can upgrade my DAC if/when the technology changes. Second, you'd only find a few DACs that can sound like what I produce, and probably no body has heard a DHT DAC or a DHT preamp. It is hard to design and build a product and then make a profit. Every website for each manufacturer says theirs is the best for what ever reason. You can find a bunch of opinions on all of the audio websites from people about what product is the best and what makes a difference in a system. You have to try for yourself. Most people do not have the experience to know what the differences are or what to look for to improve the sound in their system. And cost also plays a big factor. I don't have any tricks with my products, just listen and buy if you decide that is what you want. I can make any component to a price point. I can also advise you what on what changes or upgrades will get you to the next level. Most manufacturers don't have the time to do something like that.
randy-11 if you aren't doing blind listening tests you are the rightful prey of the snake oil salesmen
Randy-11, if you have to do a blind listening test with one of my products, and you don't hear a difference within 30 seconds, then don't buy any of my products.
Also if a $1000 sounds as good as a $30K DAC then don't buy the $30K DAC. You have to take a look inside at the design to see what's really going on. Circuit board with the same old chip set? Or a design that is something special. Custom wound transformers, power supplies, point-to-point wiring, copper chassis, cap selection, resistor selection, you need to get to understand how a product works and how it can make a sonic improvement. Once you understand that, you can find products that will make an improvement in your system.
Happy Listening.
