Is a cheaper DAC + Reclocker better than just an expensive DAC?
Hi All,
I'm still in my DAC dilemma phase, and have come across this situation, is a cheaper DAC + Reclocker better than just an expensive DAC? The basis for this is the below Gustard example. Also, i've read a review that commented on the X26 being further improved when a reclocker was added.
Gustard U18 reclocker ($635 CAD) + Gustard X18 ($952 CAD) = $1,587 CAD
OR
Gustard X26 = $1,907 CAD
So if i wanted to:
- have a mind-blowing DAC experience (stepping up from my Khadas Tone Board DAC)
-not have any regrets
- extinguish any upgrade fever
- make girls like me...
...is it a general rule that a DAC+reclocker will ususally sound better than a standalone more expensive DAC, and so i should pursue this route?
Does anyone have any amazing examples of cheaper DACs, that when coupled with a reclocker, elevate the combo into the really acoustically high-end and detailed areas of the hobby?
@fai_v Along the same lines, although I may not get as much agreement on this one. Your PC is not bad at doing the digital part. Focus your purchase on the DAC. If you have to use your PC for a year, that's ok. I also avoid combo DAC streamers as you seldom see a top quality DAC in a streamer. --Jerry |
Jerry @carlsbad but….. you can certainly find top quality streamers built in top quality DACs. I took a look at the OP’s system. You are right. Laptop can do fine for the time being. I am not familiar with those speakers and the amp at all, so take this with a grain of salt, by my guess is bigger improvements can be accomplished with stuff other than streamer. Dedicated streamer can wait |
I agree with the comments in favor of buying the better quality DAC. Built quality/better chassis construction, better quality analogue output stage and beefier power supply. These fundamental upgrade steps cost more to implement but will yield higher quality sound. Don't cut corners in these crucial areas. A reclocker won't fill this gap with a lesser quality DAC. Charles |
Good question. BTW, I love hearing from women in our hobby — far too rare IMHO. And a Canadian, even better (I’m a hockey player). Anyway, I think I may have a solution for both your questions, and one you didn’t even ask. Agree with others to get the better DAC, but with your budget I’d suggest stepping up to a Denafrips Pontus ll, but if that’s out of your budget the Musician Pegasus would be a good substitute (not sure how prices translate from US$ to CAD these days). I have the Pegasus and like it a lot. You can read good reviews of these DACs and the Gustard X26 at soundnews.net. They’re all great, so just go by which gets closest to the sound qualities you’re looking for and is within budget. Now, for the bonus, your very noisy computer is much more of a problem than reclocking. But, for around $140USD you can get an iFi Purifier 3 that will importantly help reduce the noise from your computer but will also work as a reclocker. So you can have your cake and eat it too! Hope this helps, and best of luck! |
