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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
tomic601's avatar
tomic601
12,911 posts
 
@thyname I agree !
david_ten
5,480 posts
 
Well said @thyname

Please let’s not turn this thread [into] a MQA debate.

rego
378 posts
 
@erik_squires, Currently no DAC being used.

"Its my first foray into digital streaming and I have no need for a CD player." OP
david_ten
5,480 posts
 
+1 to @lalitk 's advice and perspective on his post re. this >

“I would be curious what ’level’ of DAC would you say is commensurate with my general Mcintosh system of c1100/611 and B&W 800 d3 speakers?

is the MSB line/T+A 3100 overkill? is it the next step up that would be lost in my current system, above?”

david_ten
5,480 posts
 
@ufguy73  

Two general principles [highly simplified] you are addressing (per your recent posts) are system wide component 'parity'  AND 'synergy.'  

Since a DAC or Streamer/DAC or DAC/Pre or Streamer/DAC/Pre is upstream, you are correct to push for / stretch for a higher level component.

You can start addressing parity and synergy (if need be) once you are comfortable with the new component in your current system. 

Forming future / 'idealized' system level goals to guide your component choices will be helpful.
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