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Does the 'Buck' Start with the DAC?

Some members have expressed that the server / streaming front end is less important than the DAC.

I subscribe to the position that "Everything Matters"

As I consider front end choices, I'm trying to gauge if I should be leaning more heavily on a DAC versus a SOURCE (server / streamer).

Feedback and perspective from both camps, or any others, will be helpful. Thank you.

Please Note:  I'm not looking for validation of the position that "only the bits" matter... I accept that some believe this wholeheartedly... and that's okay by me. 
david_ten
david_ten OP
5,480 posts
 
@thyname Understood.

@three_easy_payments That makes sense.

Question: Expanding on your example, if you go with a $10K Source what would you recommend the DAC spend be (using dollars only to serve as a proxy for performance/quality)?

Asking because the equation weights very differently at lower price levels (in my experience).
three_easy_payments's avatar
three_easy_payments
2,097 posts
 
@david_ten 

I really don't have much experience in the over $5K world of DACs but from all I've read the law of diminishing returns applies pretty squarely to them.  I run an Auralic Vega G1 that I'm happy with and I know first hand that running an Auralic Leo GX Reference Master Clock through a Vega G2 is stunning in comparison to what I have but you'd need to spend close to $15K for that combo.  For $5-6K I think you'd be pleased what an Auralic G2 or T+A DAC8 can deliver attached to a $10K source but I'm sure others may suggest there's value to be had a greater spends.  I'm just not sure as my experience is limited.
david_ten OP
5,480 posts
 
@three_easy_payments Thanks.

Were you able to tease out the contributions from the Aries G2 ... assuming you heard it paired to the Vega G2 and Leo GX or in another setup?
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