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Best DAC for my system?

Thinking I would like to add an outboard DAC to my system.  I have Forte IIIs, McIntosh MC2105, McIntosh MX119 and I use a Bluesound Node2 for streaming.  What would be best options in the $500 range?  Or do I need to spend more on the DAC to make enough improvement over the Node2 DAC?  Thanks....
purplejester
purplejester's avatar
purplejester OP
9 posts
 
crn3371..yes I compared them and the Node 2 sounds better.  The MX119 was a little dull and not as defined.  Thanks for the suggestion though.

rodge827's avatar
rodge827
623 posts
 
Talk to Tommy at the Digital Amplifier Company (DAC) the DAC DAC HS is exceptional. Contact him for a price he always has demos available. 
https://www.cherryamp.com/
ddude003
161 posts
 
Seems you have about 7.5k to 8k invested in your system so far... You owe it to your self to upgrade your source, streamer/dac... 2k to 2.5k seems about the right balance with your current kit... Benchmark and Chord are good suggestions... You might also look at Lumin... And some room tuning/treatment would not be a bad idea at this point if you have not already done so...
uberwaltz's avatar
uberwaltz
13,381 posts
 
Kick the node and go straight to a Lumin D2 streaming DAC.
$1600 to $1800 used but your ears will thank you immensely.
djones51
4,947 posts
 
Pro- Ject Pre Box S2 is  $400 at Music Direct with a 60 trial period. If you use Tidal it will do MQA if that matters to you. 
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