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DACs with a budget of $800

Hey All, 

I am considering getting a stand alone DAC for my digital streaming. My system as it stands now sounds a little forward to me. Soundstage depth is lacking. Separation, width and height appear appropriate, as does image density. I am currently running a Bluesound node 2 streamer in my main system. The rest of my system is as follows:

Sources: 
TV, JA Michele Gyrodec, Bluesound Node 2

Amp(s)
Red Dragon Audio M1000 Mk I monoblocks and sometimes I switch in my Anthem MCA 20

Preamp
Blue Circle 21.1

Tranducers
Spacial Audio M3 turbo s
GMA Continuum I's
Anthony Gallo Reference 3.1
Maggie MMG's
Paradigm Monitor Sub 12 (stereo pair)

as I said I am really looking for some depth and "air" in my sound stage but also highly value impact, extended sparkle on the top end, and punch.

Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated. 



128x128birdfan
erik_squires
16,380 posts
 
Well, without jumping into the fray, generally speaking, if you want better imaging, you must improve the acoustics in the dimension that is lacking. If you want depth, then the acoustics behind the speaker's matter most, which can be improved in a variety of ways. Moving the speakers as well as adding absorption and diffusion behind them both work well. 

However, the space behind the listener also matters. If you want width, pay attention to the acoustics to the sides. 

Best,

E
mofimadness's avatar
mofimadness
5,033 posts
 
If you can find one...Oppo Sonica DAC.
mr_m
1,900 posts
 
bensturgeon,

Understandable with your $800 budget, but if you could stretch that to about $1100, you could get an Ayre Codex used, and have a killer combo with the Bluesound Node 2...IMO
Cheers,
Tim
lpretiring
473 posts
 
What about the Denafrips Ares at about $700. Many with experience with the Denafrips line up say the various models are close to the 5K highly regarded Terminator.

   LP 
erik_squires
16,380 posts
 
Never heard the Oppo Sonica, but the HA-1 was the worst headphone amp I've ever heard. 
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