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Higher End DACs

I am looking for a DAC (potentially streamer&DAC) to be paired in a mcintosh system (c1100/611). Its my first foray into digital streaming and I have no need for a CD player.

I see a lot of love for Esoteric, however, most seems to be around their transports? Are they not as renowned for pure digital streaming and/or standalone DACs? I see DCS (for instance) often referenced for standalone DACs - how does Esoteric compare?
ufguy73
djones51
4,947 posts
 
The Streamer/Dac looks to be $35,000, the streamer/dac/pre $37,500.

https://www.thecableco.com/components/digital.html?dir=desc&order=price

ufguy73 OP
51 posts
 
Are there any reasons why, for only 2500 more, one shouldnt go ahead and get what many seem to think is a great preamp?
djones51
4,947 posts
 
If I was spending that much not really, maybe if you already had the T+A preamp or one comparable. 
audiotroy's avatar
audiotroy
3,831 posts
 
Yes that is correct, the idea on the preamp version is to simply what many people want, which is to be able to just add an amplifier.

If you have a great preamp than you can go with the dac version or how about selling your preamp and applying that money towards the SDV version with the preamp?

Either way this is one of the best and most fully featured digital front ends on the market today. 

Dave and Troy
Audio Doctor NJ T+A dealers
4425
861 posts
 
The Rossini is $11000 less and has(supposedly) a very well engineered digital volume control that DCS strongly prefers to using a preamp. Of course if the Rossini clock is added the gap narrows. One thing to consider. The Rossini will retain its value very well whereas I don’t think that can be said of the T&A. I’m sure it’s a great company but I don’t believe that this is disputable. You have to be somewhat prudent given the retail prices of the two units. IMO only.
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