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Looking for recommendations for a 'warm' sounding DAC

Would anyone know of a warm sounding DAC, budget to £2500/$3000 new or used. My ears don’t like a crisp and clinical sound, I find that Chord/dcs/Topping sound painful if loud. I know many love those crisp leading edges that these deliver but that sound does not synergise with my amp/speakers nor my sensitive ears. I know the easiest way to achieve this would be to switch speakers to a mellow speaker but this option is not available.
Any suggestions would be welcome.
duckworp
mikelindauer
6 posts
 
Hi Duckworp,
   I have not critically listened to many DACs, but I’m a huge fan of the Synthesis DAC. I have heard it in different forms at Deja Vu Audio with different equipment. It is warm and cozy. Vu of Deja Vu swears it the best sounding DAC you can get under $6000. I plan to get one inside a Synthesis 96+ integrated amp. 
mikelindauer
6 posts
 
The Roma 69DC is hand-built in Italy and available well under your budget. 
duckworp's avatar
duckworp OP
262 posts
 
Thanks for all these recommendations. 
oldschool1948's avatar
oldschool1948
508 posts
 
Tubadour III SE - excellent DAC for $2500
gadios
94 posts
 
There is a 10 DAC shootout review on AZAVClub.com  held last August,
Sadly Denafrips refused us a sample. Mentioned above and well received at the event, the Line Magnetic (1st place) and Holo Audio Spring. The Chinese, Tubed, R2Rs were best received. This included
a Black Ice $800 model that was darn close to the $2,500 competitors.
I also have hyperacusis. Tube Amp and Older Tannoys seem my best bet. Good luck!!

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