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Quest for an external Dac has resulted in me way down the rabbit hole

Hi audio wizards!  I’ve read several articles and reviews about the benefits of a good quality external DAC, and the potential for “real” improvements in musical quality in a current system. I do believe my system might be in line .  I currently have a Rotel 955 CD player I like, a nodeii and a Creek evo 100 integrated amp.  The Ohm 1000 speakers sound a little lean in the top end although I do like them overall.  At this point I’ve been looking for a Dac that would bring a little more “spring and liven up my system”.  However, the more I research, the more confused I get.  I’ve been to a couple higher end stereo stores and I seem to just get the “party line”.  I live in Denver Colorado, and although I like the PS Audio line I can’t afford them.  If any one has any advice for me on a good quality external     
Dac model for under $1000 (new or used) I could sure use the help! Thank you

 

128x128dbwinters
ronboco
857 posts
 

Soundings is a little pricier. They have Boulder , Chord and HiFi Rose Dacs that I know of. I’m using the DAC in my 866 right now. It’s been a while since I’ve been to Listen up so you will probably know what they carry better than me. I know Aurrender is one of their brands. Andy works in the Boulder store and he did tell me he was changing positions to focus on home installations but I can’t imagine they would treat someone like you or I with any less importance. I was calling him to get prices on REL subs. Good luck! 
 

Ron 

plaw
89 posts
 

You may want to go to Crescendo Fine Audio.  Among others, they have the Chord Qutest.  I really liked it when they let me audition it at home.  I have a PS Audio Direct Stream and the Chord was almost there.  My son has the iFi and it sounds really good.  I have heard the Schitt Modi in my son's system, it is OK.  Good value.  I have been burned by several manufacturers - they all have two things in common:  No returns.or Warranty not transferrable.

ticat's avatar
ticat
363 posts
 

+1 chayro

OP, for a Fresh perspective, look at the alternatives to a Delta/Sigma DAC... Schiit, Denefrips, Soekris, Musician Audio, MHDT and many others offer something other than Tiss, Ssss and Hiss...

joey54
434 posts
 

You may want to try to find a used Ayre Codex. They can often be found under $1000 and should give you the sound you are looking for. Good Luck!

jbuhl's avatar
jbuhl
995 posts
 

I am in Boulder.  PM me I have a DAC you might be interested in. 

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