Look for a PS Audio DirectStream DAC used (the latest firmware really opened it up in a way that fits your search). Definitely change to better used cables!! You should be able to do both with your budget. Look for older generations of Audioquest, Synergistic Research, etc. This alone will move you toward your goal noticeably!!
Upgrade DAC recommendation
My systems consist of:
McIntosh 601 Monoblocks
McIntosh C47 Pre Amp
Martin Logan Renaissance 15A Speakers
Node2 DAC
I’m bypassing the DAC in my Node2 and using the DAC in my McIntosh C47 My sound is good but I think I’m missing something and believe the sound can be tremendously better if I upgrade my Node 2 for a better DAC. I’m willing to spend up to $5k on a new DAC
Based on my system components, can you suggest a Better DAC that will take my sound Up to new levels
need lots of help
fhanks
McIntosh 601 Monoblocks
McIntosh C47 Pre Amp
Martin Logan Renaissance 15A Speakers
Node2 DAC
I’m bypassing the DAC in my Node2 and using the DAC in my McIntosh C47 My sound is good but I think I’m missing something and believe the sound can be tremendously better if I upgrade my Node 2 for a better DAC. I’m willing to spend up to $5k on a new DAC
Based on my system components, can you suggest a Better DAC that will take my sound Up to new levels
need lots of help
fhanks
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- 35 posts total
If you are looking into strict D/A conversion performance, it seems like there are quite a bit of new high performance and reasonably priced DACs, such as the brand new SMSL SU-9 Balanced USB DAC (US $439.99), which perform better than most R2R DACs and many of the DACs listed above. The SMSL SU-9 has a SINAD of 120 dB while, for example, the Auralic Vega G2 has a SINAD of 116 dB. You can later decide to color your output signal using whatever, DSP, preamp or amp you like. https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/smsl-su-9-balanced-dac-review.16150/ |
- 35 posts total