2. digital
  3. 163862-148869

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
jrw1971
62 posts
 
I own the PS Audio Directstream with Bridge II. It is excellent.  But I’ve placed it in a smaller system, because once I heard the Mola Mola Tambaqui, I was toast.  It’s a really really good DAC.  Detailed and clean joined forces with musical and enchanting.  Not thin.  Not dry.  Not clinical.  But not thick.  Not over-ripe.  Goldilocks.  Not one of these DACs that ever-so-subtly rolls off HF to calm down the presentation, which is just laziness.  You can get it for $11,000 or so if you try.  It’s killer.  
urbie
275 posts
 
You should try the Wyred for sound 10th anniversary dac.The reviewer said it was one of the most analog sounding dacs he's ever heard in his system. I bought one and I totally concur. Very warm and natural sounding. I absolutely love it.
urbie
275 posts
 
Forgot to tell you the Wyred for sound anniversary dac retails for $4,500 US.
creditingkarma
102 posts
 
If you sell the qutest and network Bridge that puts you right there cost wise with the Bartok. Then you have the dac and network bridge in one box. 
verdantaudio's avatar
verdantaudio
1,533 posts
 
A few interesting options - You could step up in the Chord Range.  The Dave is still an elite DAC and if you paired it with something like an Antipodes S30 streamer, that would be a pretty awesome combination.  Not all-in-one but a killer combo.  

The Chord TT2 with an MScaler could be had in that price range.  Brilliant combo and extraordinary sound.  This could be an interesting solution for you and obviously offers a lot of flexibility.  

The Rockna Wavedream XLR new is $8800.  As you move up Rockna's line the DACs get more precise.  Again, Antipodes streamer with it is worth a look.  A bit more natural sounding than Chord or dCS but not rolled off and warm.  

The Weiss DAC 502 is awesome.  Tons of detail and again, a hair more natural sounding than the Chord or dCS.  Two models are available and it is on budget for you.  Check out the relatively recent Stereophile review. 

The Esoteric D-05x is an incredible unit for $10K.  I really like esoteric's sound and their approach to design.   Worth a look.  

Full disclosure -  I am a chord and antipodes dealer.  I am vetting and considering bringing in Weiss and Rockna but have no current relationship with them.  I have no relationship with Esoteric.  
More to discover