Suggestions for a top flight streamer/Dac around the $2000 mark?


Time for another change and moving from my Ayre EX8 super integrated with built in streaming and dac to a BAT VK300SE integrated.
So looking to up the ante on streaming and dac sq with a dedicated streamer/dac.
I know this tech moves faster than I can keep track of!
So suggestions around the 2k mark and used is perfectly fine!
Many thanks!
uberwaltz
Think I just answered my own question.
Found an old Straightwire usb cable and swapped that it and a fair bit of difference.

So I guess the next question is what usb cable can anybody recommend that is not going to break the bank!
I’ve tried a few from Wireworld, Pangea, Audioquest, and Curious. They all sounding the same in my system. I was always using Auralic streamers (Aries G1, Aries, and Mini) into various USB DACs. The Auralics have optical & coax outputs too, and those sounded no different than using USB, in my case.

I lean more of the side of the DAC making all the difference, and the streamer is more of what user interface you prefer. Use whatever cable looks and feels best too, that is always my preference! :)
I
lean more of the side of the DAC making all the difference, and the streamer is more of what user interface you prefer. Use whatever cable looks and feels best too, that is always my preference! :)

If you believe that why wouldn't you just use chromecast audio with minimserver or a Node 2i into whatever DAC you like? Why spend big bucks on Auralic? Not being confrontational, just curious.

Oz


After talking with Grannyring and hearing quite a few recommendations I went with one of his double smoked USB cables, be here next week so we will see then.
So have you compared USB to other inputs on your DAC? I have a cheap monoprice cable coming tomorrow to try between my Lumin and MHDT DAC. I am more curious than anything never having used USB into a DAC before.

Oz