2. digital
  3. 177148-147732

Which DACs are known to be sweet/rich/relaxed?

Problem
System is nicely transparant and detailed, but tends to get bright and harsh with certain (rock) recordings and at higher volume levels.

Objective
Nudge the system towards a sweeter, richer, more relaxed presentation.

Proposed solution / first step
Upgrade to a (tube based) DAC, budget $25-40k.

Current chain

  • ROON Nucleus
  • Mola Mola Tambaqui
  • Gryphon Essence pre amp
  • Gryphon Essence monoblocks
  • Focal Stella Utopia EVO
  • Full loom of Triode Wire Labs cables
  • Dedicated power line straight into Puritan PSM156 mains filter
  • System resides in the living room with some diffusors but no absorption other than sofas, chairs, and some rugs.


On my radar
Lampizator Pacific (or Golden Gate 2 since I heard it's more "tube-like")
Aries Cerat Kassandra 2 Ref or Sig

— What other DACs should I consider?
— Do you think upgrading to another (tube based) DAC will achieve that sweeter, richer, more relaxed presentation?

robert1976
Post removed 
secretguy
1,828 posts
 

I love when digital people want analog sound.

mahler123
3,571 posts
 

The OP does seem to have achieved insightful, accurate sound, but now seems like he wants a change.  He doesn't necessarily need to focus on the DAC; if he tubes any link in the chain, pre/power amp, source, he will probably get what he wants

deludedaudiophile
493 posts
 

I love when digital people want analog sound.

I love when people don't understand digital sound is analog all that is different is the recording mechanism.

tk21
238 posts
 

Have you tried experimenting with digital signal processing?  If not, you might want to start with what is available in Roon (including equalization and upsampling).  To take it up another level, with a correspondingly higher learning curve, take out a free trial of HQ Player. HQP integrates nicely with Roon, once you've figured out how to work the settings. 

You also might want to try measuring your room frequency response with REW. Identify the bright spots, then focus DSP (or room treatments) there.

 

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