DAC diminishing returns

Dsfreeh,

I wondered the same when looking for a DAC for my system, and in my research, I had decided to go with an FPGA or R2R Dac instead of a DAC chip based model.....would a $1,000ish DAC like the Denafrips Aries II R2R at $820 be sufficient, or should I move up the ladder to the likes of the Chord Qutest FPGA $2,000ish, Denafrips Pontus II R2R at $1,750, or HoloAudio Spring 3 Level 2 at $2,400 be worth it.

In MY system, the Denafrips Pontus II R2R DAC sounded best....though I can also say that the Chord Qutest and HoloAudio Spring 3 are both phenominal DACs......just not in my system.

My recent acquisition is pretty nice, but I bought it with the knowledge that in 10 months or so I will be taking a DAC or two home that is $7 k or so to try head to head.   If the difference is pronounced I am going to take advantage of their trade up policy.   

@oddiofyl 

That can be a really effective strategy. Getting to really know a piece of equipment for an extended length of time, so you really know the sound… then comparing with something better allows for a “deep” and thorough comparison. 
 

Good plan. Good reason to work with a dealer.

I’m keeping prior DAC also so I will compare all 3 !

I don't know ghdprentice, I had my audiophile epiphany after I got rid of the "big buck" esoteric stuff and started taking the time to really learn what was required for good sound, and paying someone who knew their stuff to get me there. It took big bucks, but the big bucks was concentrated in a few areas.