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A DAC that ought to be better known: RME

I just bought a RME ADI-2 DAC on the recommendation of some technological minded audiophiles on another site and am delighted with the sound quality and price point. It isn’t especially user friendly and the multi page user manual is complicated. Plus the DAC has equalization and a great headphone amp, all in a small package. I always thought the Exogal was a great performer but the RME strikes me as superior, especially considering the significantly lower price. I listen to a lot of chamber music and it conveys the timbre of the string instruments exceptionally well. Plus, for the first time in a long while I can actually read the screen and see what’s happening. If anyone out there is looking for a DAC this is worth at least investigating. 
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mofojo
2,266 posts
 
If you do a little digging the RME is pretty well known as a standout at its price point and somewhat above. Gets mention quite often. I’ve had mine a few months. Very impressed with it!

 Not sure how you are using it but I would highly recommend trying going direct into power amp with it.  
oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
3,718 posts
 
Great DAC for sure.... I bought one last year and love it .  
georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
10,312 posts
 
Soekris Discrete R2R Dac’s use them direct into poweramps with their own digital domain volume control .
Their best ones will compete with the top Holo, Denafrips and many of the MSB’s
http://www.soekris.dk/

Cheers George
jjss49's avatar
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jjss49
6,612 posts
 
the rme is an excellent unit, tons of useful features and very good sound, especially for headphone users

very hard to beat for the $, for those who want a clear, upfront, somewhat 'zippy' sound

but in my experience there are better sounding ones for more somewhat more $
adg101
1,062 posts
 
Add a linear external power supply and throw the switch one away. Something such as the Teddy Pardo will step it up to another level. No zippy sound whatsoever. Teddy delivered will run you $400 and worth every penny.
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