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Internal DAC quality vs external DAC's

Considering what path/options to take on a 2channel streaming setup !!!

 

I'm considering integrated amps from the likes of Hegal H120/H190, Peachtree Nova 150, Anthem STR and the NAD M10 V2

I would like to hear some opinions on their internal DAC's and how they would compare to external DAC's under $1500. (Aries 2 and Bitfrost seem to be a popular choices.)

Or perhaps the better question might be, What price point would best the internal DAC's of these units ?

I'm not looking for exact detail, just some information to help guide me through the integrated vs separates debate. 

rockophile221
lordmelton's avatar
lordmelton
877 posts
 

You’d be better off looking a streamer with a built in DAC rather than an amp.

However best of all is separates, you're just denying the inevitable.

secretguy
1,703 posts
 

I have the STR. It's awesome in  every way.

audioguy85's avatar
audioguy85
2,018 posts
 

You do not want anything all in one chassis...dacs are susceptible to noise and vibration, and can interfere with the amp/preamp signal (integrated amp) causing noise. I like to keep my integrated amps all analog. Best to keep it external, plus dacs are constantly changing etc and getting better (I guess). Can’t do much wrong with the v90 dac/Musical Fidelity for only $299....best 300 I ever spent on digital stuff.

tomstruck's avatar
tomstruck
350 posts
 

You can just upgrade an internal DAC

grinnell
1,096 posts
 

MHDT RtR Tube Dac sweet sound

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