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Best used or new DAC under $3500

What would be the best DAC for under $3500, new or used? I currently use the Chord Dave and I LOVE it. However, I'm looking to downgrade to save some dough. Some reference points:

1) Yggdrasil:  Sold it as the staging was too narrow/flat and it seemed a little lifeless
2) Ayre QB-9 DSD: Feel its a bit too bright/tizzy - at this point I'm done trying Sabre DACs.

Can anyone recommend a DAC that is not a mainstream sabre chip based DAC? I dont mind it if its an older generation or vintage DAC either - Just something I can get for under $3500. I don't want a discussion to defend Sabre DACs please.

Thanks!

jozurr
loftarasa
171 posts
 
QB9 uses Burr-Brown, no? Codex uses Sabre.

Like said above, how about Hugo TT or the new Qutest?

Otherwise Metrum Onyx/Jade or Audial Model S USB https://www.audialonline.com/model-s-usb/

Another great DAC you might find used is the Resolution Audio Cantata.
nitewulf
422 posts
 
Metrum Pavane level 1 used
Metrum Onyx/Jade
Holo Audio Spring Kitsune Tuned Edition
PS Audio DSD used
Playback Designs Merlot used

gammajo's avatar
gammajo
846 posts
 
The Ayon CD5s uses NOS Burr-Brown - nice chip
rzado
175 posts
 
EMM Labs DCC2 / DAC6 - from my perspective, at their used prices, they really represent the knee of the cost / performance curve.  Can easily be found for $2.5k used.
redrant
1 posts
 
DAC DAC,  Digital Audio Company
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