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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
nitewulf
430 posts
 
I wanted to try the Venus, but typically people tend to either buy the Pontus or the Terminator. The large capacitor counts (possibility of failure), as well as lack of reviews kinda stopped me. I know there's a very rabid Italian following but I was looking for more consensus.

I'll stand by and say the new Metrum Onyx/Jade are the best DACs within this bracket based on what I heard/tried.
zuio's avatar
zuio
96 posts
 
Forward 

I am looking for a Dac + Transport under 3500 used that has a very forward soundstage ( instruments are in front of the speaker, not even like sitting in the first row but being on the stage) volume control + remote and xlr needed. Bright but full bodied fast detailed sound.

will the Metrum onyx fit?

other alternatives:
resonessence mirus
benchmark dac 3
soekris 1541

kalali's avatar
kalali
1,977 posts
 
I think its a lot easier to find those qualities in speakers or preamps than in a DAC. My guess is any brand that utilizes tubes in their design gets you closer to those requirements.  
jburidan
803 posts
 
PS Audio DirectStream
wig's avatar
wig
1,283 posts
 
Guys,

Here is the secret I have been keeping! This DAC outclassed the Audio Note and at a fraction of the cost...

https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/sw1x-audio-design-dac-ii-absolute-top-tier-ref-nos-dac

Wig
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