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$30K DAC in a $70K system - wise or ridiculous?

Specifically, I'm looking at a Lampi Pacifica DAC for $30K. 

My system is:
Focal Kanta 3 with dual GoldenEars SuperSub X
PS Audio BHK 300 monos
PS Audio BHK preamp
Rotel 1072 CDP (modded)
Fidelizer Nimtra Signature server
Modwright/Oppo Sonica DAC with LPS
Anti-Mode 2.0 Dual Core with LPS
AQVOX AQ Network Switch SE

Cables, misc:
Synergistic Research, Wywires, Wireworld, Shunyata, Curious Cables, DH Labs, SoTM, IsoAccoustics, Herbie's

128x128cantorgale
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 

I can easily accept one’s opinion that they would prefer the DCS Rossini over the Lampizator Pacific. I would not accept it as a stated given or fact simply because it isn’t. Both are highly regarded and no doubt there are happy owners of both esteemed DACs. I would not be surprised if they sound quite different from each other (Th
ey certainly have very different design concepts and philosophical bases). These choices are based on pure subjectivity and desires/goals for a particular presentation of music and sonic character. This is like comparing a Soulution amplifier to an Aries Cerat amplifier. They will attract very different types of listeners.


there is no proclamation that says one is without question or debate superior to the other. Both I believe are superb DACs with their very unique/distinct sonic signature. Each will appeal to various listeners ba
sed on the broad spectrum of individual taste.

Charles

gormdane
35 posts
 
As you already have a PS Audio pre-amp/monoblocks, why not try their Directream DAC?
cantorgale's avatar
cantorgale OP
155 posts
 
All, again many thanks for the many suggestions.  A few observations: First, let it be stated that with all the problems in the world, it is certain that spending even $500 on something like a DAC could be better spent in the service of humanity. :) And for the record, I am quite comfortable with my personal level of charitable giving. Half in jest, y'all.

Also, I misstated the DAC price - it's $20K, not $30K. But I think all the comments still stand.

I'm always amazed in these discussions how many well-argued positions there are on both sides. So I guess it comes down to ones own taste and ears.
shkong78's avatar
shkong78
1,485 posts
 
I had been deeply impressed with its full bodied sound when I auditioned Pacific Dac May this year.

But since I am using Tube integrated amp, I had opted for Chord Dave and Mscaler.


I agree with most people that speaker shall be most important components in Audio system.

I had been using Lansche 4.1 speaker since 2007 which I had paid 50K$ for new one.

Some audiophile tends to keep changing the components every year or so.

But I am a music lover staying away from too frequent changing of components.


I had used Emmlab Dac 2 from 2010(new price was 9k$) to 2018 which I still keep it as reserve.

You may go ahead with Pacific Dac and use it 5 years or longer.

After changing to Pacific Dac, your weak link will your speaker although Focal Kanta 3 is a pretty good one.

Then you may consider upgrading your speaker after 1 or 2 years when you have enough cash reserve.

Just my 2 cents.

Thomas
mtraesbo
46 posts
 
I recently attended a show where A high end dealer had assembled three systems, which were balanced in his view. 
In the 60K setup the streamer was Innuos Zenith at 4K and the DAC a 5K from Soulution. 
So that was apparently his view. 
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