Best practices when conducting a DAC comparison

A most excellent list, Steve.

The question that bugs me is that of optimizing each component for best results. Should David use a reclocker for both pieces in the comparison even if one benefits and the other doesn’t (assumedly because the latter has better addressed the issue of noise and jitter reduction internally)? Does that fairly represent the potential user experience of each? What about different cabling/power cords that optimize each independently?

The purists’ "apples to apples" mentality would seem to require that the exact same cabling (even using the included power cords and perhaps generic digital cabling) with no external devices in play. Sounds fair, but what if one component would benefit tremendously from a reclocker or specific cabling to the point that it significantly outperforms the other and/or changes David’s preference? Even worse if one is much less costly than the other and investing a relatively small amount (i.e. that the total investment would be significantly less) would make it equal or even to outperform the much more expensive competitor.

The Terminator lists for ~$4400 and the Yggsrasil for $2400. Would spending less than $2k to optimize the Yggdrasil with a reclocker, cabling, etc. yield a better sonic result, thus making it a better purchase decision for the same or lower investment?

Seems that in the "bang for the buck" approach that the answer would be to address this with a "same or less total cash outlay" comparison as this is the real world dilemma for many of us. But then there are those that will choose to use each without any "supplements" (reclockers or upscale cabling, etc) that would find value only from the "apples to apples" comparison. And also those seeking an "all out assault" that may have interest in an ultimate sound quality comparison with each having every enhancement specifically optimized for that particular component regardless of cost. Who, short of the most diehard professional reviewer, has a sufficient number of these ancillary components available to even begin to satisfy all possible curiosity?

David has a real challenge on his hands trying to potentially satisfy each category of reader. I wish him the best of luck.

Dave

Thanks to everyone for your guidance and to the recent helpful posts from @seventies @audioengr  and @dlcockrum 

I've learned much from each poster.

I finished the comparison between the Schiit Yggdrasil and the Denafrips Terminator this morning. The comparison got held up for a number of reasons but all-in-all the delays, in retrospect, were actually helpful and made for a stronger and more robust evaluation.

First, I was able to get to a place where all the components were well broken in.

Second, I was able to spend significant time with my system and each of the 'newer' components and cabling and I now have a very good feel and sense for them. 

Third, though the comparison is Subjective, I was able to control many of the variables to level the playing field --- as much as I reasonably could; however, the review process will not meet bench level rigor.

Fourth, the added time has allowed me to think through and reflect on the process and what I'm looking to achieve much, much more thoroughly. 

Fifth, I was able to get another audiophile's perspective on where my system is 'performance wise' as well as getting feedback on shortcomings. I also wanted a second opinion on What I 'hear' and How I 'hear' and to discuss my audio preferences 'live' and based on my system. I've also had a number of phone discussions with audiophiles active on Audiogon to answer questions and bounce thoughts and approaches off of.

I will be writing up my findings and takeaways starting tomorrow and should be able to wrap it up over the next few days. Once it's finalized, I will post a link for those who may be interested and curious.

Hey guys, my write up is posted here:

http://terminatorandyggdrasil.blogspot.com/

And here:

https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/denafrips-terminator-and-schiit-yggdrasil-evaluation-and-comp...

This thread guided my approach, though it is not as rigorous as some suggested or how you might conduct your own evaluations.

The suggestions, however, certainly became part of the process and for that I am thankful and grateful to all who posted. I learned a lot through your feedback. Thank you.