DAC diminishing returns


Looking for some experienced input on the diminishing return as you go up the the DAC ladder. I mostly stream music and occasionally listen to CDs.  Currently, I’m using a Schiit Bifrost Multibit DAC.  It’s connected to my Naim Nait 5Si and that drives Zu Omen ii speakers. In my limited experience, I have not heard any substantial differences when changing DACs.  I’m considering a Denafrips Pontus DAC.  Does the significantly higher cost justify what might be a marginal increase in sound quality?  Is buying a more expensive DAC for better sound just splitting hairs, and making you feel better about your system?  Are different DACs just different coloration of the sound?

I don’t want to be duped into buying something I don’t really need. Thanks.

dsfreeh
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@seanheis1 if you think the D90 is the ultimate transparency and what the engineer intended, you both don’t know DACs and sound engineering. That’s pure nonsense. Not that I would recommend it for home use, but if you want to hear what a studio engineer intended you should probably get some large ATC studio monitors and maybe a Burl converter. 

@mayoradamwest  transparent DACs are becoming a dime a dozen. This is easily measured. Transparent DACs are also no fun and that is why we have tube DACs, R2R and options such as NOS and slow filters. 

Hi @dsfreeh,

For what it’s worth,  I have the original Schiit Bifrost multibit and I also have a Denafrips Pontus ll and the Pontus ll is hands down better sounding to me. There is nothing wrong with the BiFrost, in fact I’m still using it in a second system, but the difference in sound was immediately noticeable.

All the best.

JD