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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
seandtaylor99
1,262 posts
 
I've never heard it myself, but all descriptions (by users) of the Electrocompaniet EMC-1UP upsampling DAC exactly match your descriptions. It's about $1200 used, just above your budget, but could easily be resold for about the same money.
photon46
1,082 posts
 
While the aesthetics may not be your cup of tea, Kora's Hermes dac is available used at your price point from time to time. It's one I would consider without hesitation given your stated preferences. I would also consider a used Electrocompaniet dac, very much in line with your desired sound.
tobias
1,534 posts
 
The Kora Hermes is a very nice DAC which responds well to NOS tubes.
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