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What is the average life expectancy of a DAC?

Hello folks, 

With the recent profusion of relatively inexpensive DACs that are now available, I'm wondering what the average life expectancy of a good DAC is? Or, to put it another way, is it cost-effective to invest in a high(ish) end DAC like a Denafrips Terminator or a Halo May with the expectation that it will last at least 5 or more years?

Thanks!  
aamiransari
jasonbourne52's avatar
jasonbourne52
2,863 posts
 
An expensive DAC is a fetish object for many here! The more costly the greater the claims for aural "thrills"! 
afisher
72 posts
 
DACS that live  in the wild have a much shorter life than domesticated DACS. My DAC was a rescue DAC and while we’re not sure of its real age, it’s probably about six months old, 
erik_squires
16,924 posts
 
30 years is not too short a life span for a DAC.  There are a couple of thigns to consider though:
1 - DAC's after 2010 got much better, especially with RedBook playback so buy older models with caution.

2 - Streaming services and connectivity changes more rapidly than resolution and bit rates. 

Best,
E
cleeds
6,318 posts
 
jasonbourne52
Nobody can tell a $100 DAC from a $1000 DAC if they listen blindfolded
That’s an interesting claim. Please tell us about your listening tests that have led you to this conclusion.
rsf507
2,472 posts
 
Yes DACs should last many many years but technology moves ahead quickly especially like others have stated connectivity. Look for companies that constantly update products. My dac originally didn't have an Ethernet connection (wasn't even a thing many yrs ago) then streaming came out and had my dac updated to accept Ethernet.
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