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CDP or DAC with high end volume control

Hi Guys,

I was wondering what you guys think would be a good choice for CDP or DAC for an all digital setup? I want to run without a dedicated preamp (straight into amp with volume control). I know most people here would say a dedicated preamp would sound best though. What I'm looking for is a CDP or DAC that has a volume control that can "drive" an amp similar to an active preamp. One which has the sound quality to rival a very high quality dedicated preamp.

A couple that I've been looking into are the Vitus RD-100, Aesthetix Pandora/Romulus Signature, and Ayon Stealth or Stratos DAC (or current, Ayon top of the line CDP). Any others? Pros/Cons in terms of sound, especially when connected directly to an amp sans preamp? I have not heard any of these components yet either. I'm looking to build a list of possible components to try out. My price range is probably about 10k used.

Solid state or Tube is OK, as long as the sound is quick, natural, maybe slightly on the warm side of neutral is OK. Holographic 3D soundstage with good layering is important. USB input or DSD support is not that important, but a welcome feature for a modern product. I use mostly redbook.

The rest of my system consists of Berning Quad Z tube amps, and Nola Baby Grand Ref 2 speakers.

I think this is my first post. I'm a long time reader of these forums, and buyer/seller of equipment here. I'm starting to research for a purchase a lot further in the future.

Thanks for all of your help!
manthik
reverendo
88 posts
 
just saw the answers now. it's a pity that agon doesn't offer an alert when new answers are posted on threads we participate in. hope you are listening, agon developers.
@cedargrover I do see now that I might have been unclear in stating my interest: I'm looking for a DAC with integrated analogue pre as a one box solution, preferably with tubes. I already have a very good DAC with integrated digital volume control, but am thinking of switching to an amp + DAC w/ analogue pre. In that case the Ayre doesn't quite fit the intent, although it looks like a very interest
@manthik thanks for updating us. please report your experiments. the Vitus looks very interesting and always thought that it would fair better as a pre than as a DAC. your first-hand experience is appreciated.
almarg's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
almarg
9,670 posts
 
it's a pity that agon doesn't offer an alert when new answers are posted on threads we participate in.
To the right of the original post in any thread there is a clickable green box labelled "Follow this discussion."  Under that box it says "Get notified when someone responds."  While I haven't used that feature myself I presume it would provide what you are looking for.

Regards,
-- Al
 
reverendo
88 posts
 
@almarg thank you for that one... :D there used to be a feature like this a long time ago, but it never worked. hoping this will. again, thank you very much.
gcp
37 posts
 
For 2 ch., using bel canto's CD-2 and CD3t transports with DAC2.7 and DAC3.7 and Woo Audio's WTP-1 with WDS-1. Those DACS have digital VC. The bel cantos even have an analog input! Own and use them direct into tube and SS and Class D amps that allow for volume settings above 75.  Also VG for DVD/ Bluray HT, use an OPPO 105 (later modded) with its digital VC. While not for me, others praise it's audio chops.      
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 

Manthik, Don’t be surprised if the Linear Tube Audio preamp actually improves the sound quality when mated with the Aqua La Scala and the Vitus, you never know. I look forward to reading about your listening impressions.

Charles

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