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Best DAC For My Setup Under $10k

Just wanted to get you thoughts on possible DAC replacements for my system with a budget under $10k (new or used) that would go well with my setup. My system consists of McIntosh MA352 integrated, Wilson Sabrinas, DCS Network Bridge and a Chord Qutest DAC (with a upgraded power supply) which I want to replace. I mostly do streaming for my listening.

Here are my current contenders:
DCS Debussy
Berkeley Alpha DAC 2
DCS Scarlatti (used)

I would also consider all in one systems (streamer and DAC) that would partner well with my gear.

Thanks in advance!
stanja
sfseay's avatar
sfseay
496 posts
 
I would vote for the DeBussy.  I owned the Bricasti M3 and wish I would have kept the Debussy.  I have downsized my system since owning them both, but the dCS Debussy was one sweet sounding DAC.
jbuhl's avatar
jbuhl
978 posts
 
PS Audio Direct Stream is ~$6K,FPGA design and in -home audition.  Combine that with their Stellar Power re generator for ~$2k  and you are still under $10K.  Might be worth considering. They proly take the Chord in on trade as well.
feliks
14 posts
 
Just curious: is there a specific deficiency in the Qutest that you are trying to address or do you just want a change?
jjss49's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
jjss49
6,612 posts
 
+1 to soix's question...

what are you trying to improve over the qutest?

m scaler might be the ticket if you want more smoothness and dimensionality to go with the crystalline dynamic sound of the qutest
peach-1
25 posts
 

I am also curious why you are not moving up the Chord line of Dac’s I couldn’t believe the performance for the money Qutest Delivered
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