Best DAC+Volume Control under $1000 (used)
I'm using a Pro-Ject Pre Box S-2 Digital DAC in my office system and am very happy with it. It's under your budget, which might disqualify it, but it is a Stereophile recommended product, winner of an EISA award and got a great review in the Absolute Sound. https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/pro-ject-pre-box-s2-digital-dacpreamplifier |
The Mytek and RME are good choices if you generally like a more detailed, sorta analytical, solid state type sound. Personally, I've never heard a digital volume control that would satisfy me, even those on five-figure gear. My preference is more analog/tube/fleshed out so I agree with @cat_doorman. Try something like Rothwell attenuators or another low cost passive option and go with an R2R dac, Denafrips, Soekris or whatever else floats your boat. It's a bit of a risk avoiding an active preamp; many find the additional gain of an active pre provides sonic benefits that relying only on the math would leave you scratching your head. Cheers, Spencer |
this Chase RLC-1 Remote Line Controller will give you remote volume for 4 inputs thus you can use a DAC without volume control, lots more choices within your budget. https://www.ebay.com/itm/265367179857?hash=item3dc91dd251:g:lPIAAOSwzNRhbItR It needs the remote to operate, this one's sealed remote means it was never used. I have tried several times in 3 systems over the years: my friends and I cannot hear any difference with or without using it. 120db s/n. With a system that produces good/great imaging, you discover errant tracks that benefit a lot from a minor balance tweak, the unit has remote balance. |
