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
dsper
663 posts
 

@divertiti Unless you want your dac quest into having to rebuild your entire system, maybe best to stick to choices that will work well with your existing components that you already own and like...

You are certainly correct. I think I have the amp and speakers settled although I want to try tube amps at which point I will need higher ohm speakers.

In the meantime, I keep aiming for a more live sound, which I think can come from more transparency and "presence" for my system.

That has led me to thinking about DAC and Preamp Upgrades.


Ag insider logo xs@2x
duddley
78 posts
 
You might consider the DAC's from Simaudio. Great reviews, and my personal experience with their products has been very positive. 
knighttodd
201 posts
 
Right now I am listening to  a RME ADI2 dac fs and an PS Audio DStream latest model with Windom program. Lot of good features on the PS, but also on the RME. Great bass on the RME, very good sound stage. I stream only thru a Blusound. Rest of the year is  new ARC LS28SE, Parasound A21+, GE Triton Reference. I really can't see keeping the PS for the 5k difference.
facten
2,878 posts
 
Here's a link to the Enjoy the Music review that just came out on the Mojo EVO B4B

http://www.enjoythemusic.com/superioraudio/equipment/0221/Mojo_Mystique_EVO_B4B_21_DAC_Review.htm?ut...
fsonicsmith's avatar
fsonicsmith
958 posts
 
Dagogo just came out with a review of the DAC III. It matches my impressions of my DAC II Special which hopefully, within a month, will be swapped out for an incoming DAC III Balanced. It should be noted that the balanced version doubles the price from 6K to 12K. Also, am much as I impressed by the product, I will warn prospective buyers that they need to be patient. Each time I have ordered, the estimated delivery time has doubled. Expect 2-3 months. Slawa personally sound-tests each and every unit before it leaves his doors and if he hears anything amiss, it gets held back for further adjustment. These are the opposite of mass produced products-they are assembled by hand and constantly evolving. That will surely draw some flack from those of you out there who judge-and if you find this lack of consistency a turn-off, SW1X is not for you. Unless you were to listen to music with one.....
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