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DAC under $1K

Has to sound noticably better than the CD players I already have, ie. Philips CD-80 & CAL Tercet MKIII. Will use the CD-80 as transport. Tried AVA Omega & Fet Valve DAC's in the past & these are no better than what I have. Never heard, but am familiar with by reading reviews, etc. with Ack, Attraction, DAC AH, used Classe DAC-1, etc. I am DIY ready if the DAC AH is worth the bother of rebuilding? Using DIY 2A3 Loftin-White amp & Klipsch KLF-20 speakers.
5u4
clio09
3,355 posts
 
The Monarchy M24 DAC may be of interest to you.
narrod
1,064 posts
 
In my opinion, the BelCanto DAC2 (or even the DAC1) would be better than anything else you mention. The DAC2 can be found used for under $750 and the DAC1 for less than $500.
Both are most musical, analog sounding DACs I've ever heard that don't cost stupid money.

-Wendell
restock
831 posts
 
What sonics are you looking for? Different DACs gow quite in different direcion. (Take a look at the reference DAC thread for example) I find myself being very selective about sources in general.

Here is a list of DACs I considered recently for about $1k:

Benchmark DAC1
Lavry DA10
Wavelength Brick (USB only for PC audio)
Altmann Atraction
Monarch D24

After long back and forth I decided to get the Lavry and Wavelength Brick. Two very different flavors, but the two looked the most promising. I will be doing a comparison as soon as both are here. Ultimately I have been hoping to switch from my Audio Aero Prima CDP to a PC based system. The AA Prima will be a tough one to beat. Form my first impressions the Lavry is very good but quite different from my Prima. Also, it is unbelievable what differences transports make to the Lavry.

I would have loved to try the Altmann :)

Good luck with your search!

Rene
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