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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
calvinandhobbes
312 posts
 
larshepping 

Ok, no reason to buy an external DAC at all if they all sound the same. Just use the DAC built into your computer or phone. End of discussion.
audioguy85's avatar
audioguy85
2,032 posts
 
Why would they last any less than any other component? I'd say the guy that said 30 or 40 years is most likely correct. 
calvinandhobbes
312 posts
 
The answer is that DACs will last as long as you are satisfied with what you have (and it is still working). That could be 1 month or 30 years. YMMV.
fixedincome
111 posts
 
My previous one lasted 15 years for me, and was used when I bought it.  It was a Chord DAC 64
rikkipuu's avatar
rikkipuu
284 posts
 
@jaytor 
I have a similar DAC path, only with a Wyred 4 Sound DAC-2 DSD v2.2 in between my Yggy and Terminator.  I recognized the benefits of moving up the DAC chain, my experience has been better DAC's cost more.

I found the Yggy better than my CD player's DAC but mildly unsettling at times.  The W4S was smoother and more detailed with better low end but still occasionally strident.  The Terminator was a big step up but still at moments left me wanting.  The Terminator Plus with Denafrips Iris DDC using the clock out from the TP is amazing.

I could always spend more and get better now.  Unless I get another upgrade bug (can't see these coming) I think my DAC will be good for at least 4 years and probably more before DAC's change enough for me to feel the need to change.
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