2. digital
  3. 166597-39011

Full featured balanced dac/preamp advice

There doesn't seem to be too many units on the market that feature a balanced dac/preamp, AES digital input, analog RCA input, balanced outputs and remote control. The Bel Canto 2.7 dac checks all of those boxes. All opinions on that unit would be very welcome. I'm leaning towards buying one at this point. However I don't want to rush this purchase without exploring all of my options. Benchmark made one until recently but it appears to have been discontinued. Guess there is a chance I could find a pre-owned one. I think Mytek has one but I have heard Bel Canto is superior. All opinions greatly appreciated
milkdudd
antigrunge2
1,398 posts
 
The answer to your question depends on the distance between pre and power amp. Anything less than 2m won‘t make much of a difference, anything further: balanced wins.
tweak1
3,645 posts
 
I have a Audio Alchemy DDP-1 (dac/pre) + PS 5 outboard power supply. It is really good. Peter M who is/was AA) designed the dac/pre/streamer for Elac. I've not heard it, but Enjoy the Music raved about it


hth
verdantaudio's avatar
verdantaudio
1,499 posts
 
I believe the Rockna Wavelight has all the features that you are looking for.  I had a customer who did a side-by-side with Bel Canto and the Rockna and like the Rockna much better.  Of course, it is almost double the price so you would hope that it would be better.  
milkdudd OP
64 posts
 
The Audio Alchemy DDP-1 definitely has the features. I love the two single ended and one XLR balanced inputs. Doesn't appear to be in production anymore. Maybe I could find a pre-owned unit with the power supply. Did a little research and I can't find out what dac chip is used. I know implementation is more important but it's still nice to know going in before purchase. Definitely nice to have more choices
tweak1
3,645 posts
 
I don't recall, but TAS reviewed it back in 2017-18ish
More to discover