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DAC Dilemma

I will (probably foolishly) put my decision before you all and see if I get any informed opinions, or if I just get scoffed at. I have been at this hobby many years, but must admit to not having the sophistication that many of you do. To those of you that are DAC experts. I have read, and it is my understanding that DAC technology has progressed to the point that 1) new "entry level" DAC’s blow away earlier generation DACs that originally cost much more, and 2) the difference between most current DACs as far as sound quality is pretty subtle. I have an Aurender N100H (which is going to stay) with a PS Audio DirectStream DAC (Not the $6K version. The $3K version with no bridge) feeding into an Audio Research SP16 tubed preamp into a high end solid state amp. Should I 1) just keep what I have (yes, it sounds good, but it could always be better) 2) replace the PS Audio with an Audio Research DAC7 that is about 11 years old but very well reviewed in it’s day, or 3) sell the PS Audio and the Audio Research SP16 and replace both with a Benchmark DAC3 HGC. The Benchmark would give me a current Class A DAC along with multiple inputs for digital, and two inputs for both of my turntables, thus eliminating the need for a separate preamp. But, would the Benchmark SOUND better than either the PS Audio DAC or the DAC7? I am very much aware that the DAC's mentioned above address the actual digital to analogue conversion in very different ways which is precisely why I'm asking which one you think gives the best (natural, uncolored, transparent) sound. Opinions please.
128x128pascon
sns
3,338 posts
 
What your seeking from your system is likely what we're all seeking. Sounds like you've already made up your mind DirectStream is not and won't be future solution (even with factory upgrades) for you. In this case, you'll get a multitude of advice as to what dac to purchase. Since your streaming, Per David_Ten make sure whatever input you choose has been optimized within dac. 
Again, your present dac pretty good, especially with the factory upgrades. To get substantially better sound you need to spend in $10k range. Check out Verdant audio thread for nice dacs in this price range. There are some value dacs out there that would also be somewhat of an improvement. Dacs in the range of DirectStream price are more difference of flavor than substantially better or worse. There are no miracle dacs, no single dac stands head and shoulder above others. $10-20K dacs sota, $7-!5K sota or near, DirectStream price range next tier. Dacs that would be substantially better than yours would include Rockna Wavedream, Aqua Formula, Mola Mola Tambaqui. Again, I'd suggest Holo May, this is likely the preeminent dac at around $5k. I've never seen even a mediocre review of this dac, most say its revelation at price, competes with $10k crew.
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
@pascon,
Reading your comments lead me to conclude that  you are going to be fine moving forward. You've reached the crossroads of realization.  You have to choose audio equipment based on what I believe is the most important criteria, what do "you" like. Simple admittedly philosophically but sometimes it takes awhile to get there.

All the frequent talk (Angst?) about ever more detail and resolution. These qualities are worthy of pursuit  but only if they are congruent with musical enjoyment and heightening your emotional engagement and spontaneous reactions to what you're listening to.musicality and pure visceral connection along with high resolution are not incompatible. 

But if listening to a component or system sounds clinical/analytical/sterile dry and lifeless don't let someone convince you that, oh it's just accurate, neutral and very detailed, BS! It you are not thoroughly engaging and could continue listening for hours then something is wrong. Music listening should be fully enjoyable and compelling to your satisfaction. Per your posts above I can see that you have come to that recognition. I heard the Holo May level 3 DAC in my audio system (A loan from a friend). Very nice sounding but I'd  choose @jond older generation Audio Note DAC 3 if ultimate musical involving listening were the stated objective. That's just me, others might prefer the Holo May DAC.
Charles 
secretguy
1,743 posts
 
pascon...the timing is good for us Steeler fans ;)
pascon's avatar
pascon OP
17 posts
 
Secret guy: Boy, you got that right. My ex-wife is from Pitt ( Homestead) and I was figuring that the Hawks had a pretty good chance with the Stillers this year. She of course said, Ha! Now whatya think? I said, Gulp! I think we can count on old Ben to blow it so we shall yet prevail. She said, Keep dreaming.
pascon's avatar
pascon OP
17 posts
 
Someone posted a very well-stated case for the Benchmark DAC3, I read it at work and had to put it aside. Now I’ve gone back to look for it to read it more carefully, and it seems to have disappeared. He probably thought it would fall on deaf ears, but that is not the case. I’d really like the chance to carefully consider and respond to that post. I think the name was Robert. Care to send again?
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