2. digital
  3. 162029-21

DAC Choices - $5,000 to $7,000

What are the current top DAC choices in the approximately $5-$7K price range (new or used) that I should look at as possible upgrades to my current Metrum Adagio?  Having an on-board volume control is not a factor as I can operate my system either way.   If I wanted to spend more I would look at Totaldac, Rockna Wavedream Signature, or one of the other top-end contenders, but I selected the price range to achieve a sound quality that is consistent with the rest of my system and because I don't want to spend more due to the still evolving nature of digital technology.  I do like the more natural sound (to my ears) of NOS R2R DACs.  So far, I have considered the three below, but none seem to be a slam-dunk upgrade from the Adagio, which still sounds pretty good in my system.  The decision is complicated by having to "buy to try" so that I can hear one in my system.  Maybe now is not the time for an upgrade.  Any thoughts?

  • Denafrips Terminator w/DSP board - Reportedly has the full body/dense tone type of sound I like, but also has a high'ish output impedance 
  • Holo May KTE - Reportedly measures great for an R2R DAC and has strong reviews 
  • Rockna Wavelight - Some reviewers like it but others put it in the middle of the pack for the price
mitch2
rsf507
2,347 posts
 
Wow sounds very VERY complicated with so many connections. Isn't there some one box solution you could try? Less can be more.
mitch2 OP
4,082 posts
 
I hear you on all the connections. The system was optimized for the Adagio, which is different from the Mystique in two significant ways, the Adagio uses an I2S input and it has a lossless internal volume control.  Since the Mystique has neither an I2S input or a volume control, I now have to sort out whether S/PDIF or USB input sounds better and a method of controlling volume.  I am going to try it connected directly to my Antipodes DX server, which can perform duties of both the Roon Core and Endpoint when used through its USB output.  I will get it figured out. 
dsper
663 posts
 
Gosh, this thread could drive you nuts.

Suggestions all over the map without any regard for what speakers one is using or the overall sound of one's system.

Still gets down to listening in your home.

If buying without hearing, then the question should be how does a particular DAC sound in the context of the system in which it is being used compared to the DAC it replaced.

Otherwise, it is just masturbation is it not?

Sorry, my wife has tested positive for Covid19 and the quarantine is starting to get to me.

Thanks for listening,

Dsper
rsf507
2,347 posts
 
@dsper sorry to hear about your wife hope she is doing fine.
So what dac's have you masturbated to? (sorry couldn't help myself)
dsper
663 posts
 
:)

Many until I found ladder DACs that worked with my Thiel CS5i's.

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