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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
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.  
listening99 OP
172 posts
 
What I'm seeking to clarify is how "Power supply noise and OP amp compression" influence THD + N?

What measurements meaningfully capture power supply noise and OP amp compression?
jjss49's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
jjss49
6,612 posts
 
A:  My friend just died of a stroke

B:  But his body temp was exactly 98.6 - he was healthy

A:  He smoked like a chimney and ate bacon every meal

B:  But his blood pressure was exactly at the mid point of normal range for his age and weight

A:  Are you an idiot - he is dead

B:  I believe based on my measurements he is still alive

A:  Dumb ass

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