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Some DACs I am Considering-Any thoughts?

Soekris 2541                $1.1

Doge 7                         $1.2

Mhdt Pagoda               $1.4

Denafrips Pontus         $1.8

Audio Mirror SE           $2.5

Holo Audio Spring 2    $2.7

Audio Note 4.1 Kit       $3.6

Lampizator Amber 3    $3.8

Anyone who can speak from experience  about comparisons
between any two these?

I like the use of a tube and I like the R2R style of build.

Prefer to stay under $2.5 but might be swayed.

Thanks in advance for sharing.

(Some of these prices are certainly not correct)
chorus
yuviarora's avatar
yuviarora
537 posts
 

Rockna wavelight is one hell of a DAC. 

It's and R2R DAC that has the clarity of a chip based design, massive soundstage, 3D Layering, and a very accurate timbre. Bass has weight, density, agility, and is very transparent to the source. 

You might want to throw that on your list. 

Goes up another level if you use a good powercable and aftermarket fuse. 

sbank's avatar
sbank
3,379 posts
 

@chorus Any progress?

dsper
663 posts
 

All this statement speaks to is what this poster hasn't heard@jjss49

This is so true; been there, done that myself.

And is why I question the logic of buying inexpensive DACS because the technology is changing so rapidly.

My Theta DS ProBasic III is a very good DAC and it is what, 20 plus years old?  I also bought a new Soekris single ended. Different strokes, depending on your musical tastes and the rest of your gear. 

I listen to new equipment regularly at a couple of hi end stores in the Indy area.

Just because it is the latest technology does not mean that it is the best sounding. 

Thanks for listening,

Dsper

 

chorus OP
976 posts
 

This thread is 10 months old now so rereading later posts today was interesting.

Particularly the Cetla comparison of Pontus 2 to MDHT Orchid.

I bought the AM Tubadour and did a reclocking upgrade since.

I still love it for the $2k I have spent. Not sure if the friend with

the AN 4.1x kit will sell or not so waiting for his decision.

I heard a system last week with the Gustard DAC for the first time

and the system was great. How much of a role the DAC played

is hard to know. The owner is a value guy who never overspends

making me think it is likely pretty good as per previous comment.

I agree with many statements above about buying an established name

known for solid builds. I broke with that for Audio Mirror after hearing Vlad's

story. Had to support him and am happy I have done so. Nice to be able to

pick up the phone and talk to the owner/designer/builder too.

frieddr
1 posts
 

This seems like a very educated list.  What did you end up buying and do you still have it?  I have a Pagoda single ended with Ericcson tube which has a lovely warmth,  good soundstage and separation.  Sometimes I feel like I'm missing some sparkle on the top end, like the resolution is a limiting factor.  I'm really considering trying a Pontus II.

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