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Looking for a DAC under 2k

I'm using a Small Green Computer Optical Rendu to bring usb to a DAC.
Looking for a new DAC around 2k new or used.

Recently, I had a Border Patrol Se-i which sounded beautiful with a great soundstage and a relaxed sound. Unfortunately, dynamics and bass definition were weak.

Next up, I tried the ifi Pro iDSD. Detailed and clean, but lots and lots of settings to play with. Became noisy after a couple hours and eventually stopped putting out sound and went silent. Can't deal with that kind of poor quality, but really would have prefer a little warmer sound.

I borrowed my Chord Qutest from my headphone system. Very good with my tube headphone system, and not bad on the speaker system, but would like something a bit more analog sounding, like a Border Patrol with dynamic punch and clearly defined, not muddy bass.

TIA, for suggestions.


traudio
gryphongryph
380 posts
 
cal3713 - I do understand the difference between bal and rca, was more thinking about the implementation.
Even though I have balanced equipment, I am leaning to the camp that balanced is overkill in home Hi-Fi and that the money would be better spent in better parts or single ended development, also for balanced to make any sense, one has to use it all trough the chain!
Off course if the buying budget is is of no concern, then please buy balanced 😜

I find this interesting.
http://www.pureaudio.co.nz/?page_id=270
yyzsantabarbara
4,895 posts
 
BTW - that Gustard X26 Pro is on sale for $1300 this week. I was able to also get that discount even though I purchased before the sale.
alexberger
921 posts
 
Here is a good Chord Qutest review:
https://www.stevehuffphoto.com/2021/01/17/hifi-the-chord-mscaler-with-chord-qutest-dac-review-end-ga...
dsper
663 posts
 
@whipsaw You’re doubling down on a dubious stereotype, and I’m being charitable with my language.
I was in China ten years ago inspecting a potential supplier's factory.

Arc furnace process with an overhead crane - dirt floor, no safety gear - hard hats or eye protection, and the quality process was not documented.

I realize electronics are not mutli thousand pound industrial products, but just be careful with what you are buying.


cal3713's avatar
cal3713
1,421 posts
 
Not arguing with you at all.  I have no experience and know nothing about the current state of manufacturing in China... but I do know that a lot has happened there over the past 10.  A country with a plan.  I wish we had one in the States.
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