DAC Upgrade


Thinking it's time to upgrade my DAC. Here's the system:

Cyrus CD/t

Belles Aria integrated amp

Fritz Carbon 7 speakers

Schiit Gungnir dac

The Schiit can be upgraded to "multibit" for $500, thus making it an "Yggdrasil Junior."

Is the additional $500 (on top of the original $899) worth it, or am I better off selling the Schiit and taking that plus $500 and going with something else?

FWIW, I like Schiit's business model and that they're a (mostly) California-based company. Also, I'd prefer to buy American wherever possible.

I'll be the first to admit that I find the technical (and marketing) jargon elusive, particularly where DACs are concerned. I listen primarily to CD's.

Appreciate the input!

danto

@danto - How do you like those Fritz speakers?? I’ve got a pair of Carerra BE’s - took a few months to break in, but they sound awesome now!

@jjss49 Fair point.  I think the pricing of some of its previous incarnations was still in my mind.

@larsman LOVE my Fritz speakers. Sound great, easy on the eyes (WAF was key), and Fritz is great to work with. Initially I was thinking that I might need a subwoofer, but between toying with placement and the speakers breaking in, they really have nice presence. Now, just trying to bring the rest of the system up to snuff. 

Agree about Friz Carrera BE not needing a subwoofer. The bass is just right -- tight and punchy with nothing flabby about it. Fritz has developed a fantastic speaker! A steal at his asking price if you ask me.

About the Audio Mirror Tubadour III ... I don't know why Vlad stopped producing the $1550 version. The SE version is out of reach for many folks and now it competes in a price bracket where there are lots of wonderful DACs available for about the same price. Personally, I feel the Denafrips Pontus or Venus are better value in this price range. I really wish he could re-introduce the non-SE version.