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What makes a DAC so expensive?

You can buy a Cambridge Audio AXA25 25 Watt 2-Channel Integrated Stereo Amplifier | 3.5mm Input, USB Input for $225, and most DACs seem more costly. 

I'm wondering what it is that makes a Bifrost 2 almost as expensive as an Aegir and 3x's as expensive as the Cambridge product, above. I would have thought an Aegir would out-expense a Bifrost by a factor of two or three. What are the parts that make the difference? 

I'm wondering if the isolated DAC concept is one that comes with a "luxury" tax affixed. Can anyone explain what I'm getting in a Bifrost 2, or other similar product that justifies the expense...?

Thank you.
listening99
speedbump6
760 posts
 
Listening, you’re trying to use one measurement to decide. I also do that, but 8n this case that instrument is my ears. 
cal3713's avatar
cal3713
1,421 posts
 
I tried one of the best measuring dacs in the world, the matrix X-Sabre Pro. Unfortunately it sounded dull and lifeless. I wish I could choose based on measurements because it sure would be a lot easier than actually having to listen to everything.
mahgister's avatar
mahgister
12,964 posts
 
Dull and lifeless?

Try  Starting point systems at his price nothing to loose and it is not dull nor lifeless, it sound very natural....
invalid
1,168 posts
 
You really think the output stage has no effect on sound, maybe you should just stick to an avr with good measurements.
djones51
4,947 posts
 
If the DAC is reconstructing the waveform optimally and the measurements for distortion and noise shows they are not audible that’s correct it doesn’t have a sound signature, it’s a well engineered transparent DAC. I understand not all DACs are transparent.  
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