How old is too old for a Dac?

Jond,
This should be an enjoyable shootout and I am interested in your outcome. 
Charles 

Thanks to all of you for your input.

I'm considering getting something that will also see tandem duty music/HT use, such as the Marantz AV8802a. It uses the AKM AK4490 DAC, which I understand is pretty good. I'm a little concerned about getting a high cost unit like this... that is combining both pro/pre, as it can make upgrading later more costly.

randy-11

I honestly have no idea! :) These are not very similar DAC's AFAIK. I can't tell you a technical reason for it. It is just a trend I have observed lately. A good trend! :)

Best,

E

Here another one with a Yamamoto YDA-01, after eight years.

A few months ago a used Yamamoto YDA-01 was sold on eBay for only $500. A truly bargain for a great DAC.

500.00 dollars? Extraordinary value. This small Japanese company flies under the radar outside of Asia.
Charles