Chord DAVE DAC

Full disclosure, I've never auditioned the Dave. That said, any luxury consumer electronics product in the 5 figure range should have a display that does not look like a ransom note. 

@jackhifiguy 

As you can see everyone is recommending their favorite. I would recommend doing blind testing on some of the models you are interested in and let your ears decide. There is no bias if you don’t know which one you are listening to. Good luck ! 
 

Ron 

@jackhifiguy, the Chord DAVE is a great DAC! I’ve heard it in a $250,000 2-channel speaker system. I’ve demoed it in my modest home setup. And both times I was completely captivated by its resolution and clarity. It has superb instrument separation and a phenomenal soundstage. I would describe its sound as neutral tilting toward the analytical. If you want to hear everything in a recording in minute detail, then the Chord DAVE would be a good fit for you. Because of the DAVE’s lofty price any good Chord dealer should be glad to send you one for a home demo. 

It tells me anytime  some one says a really cheap piece is better than a top flight piece You know the only thing that has happened is the good piece is showing  how bad the rest of there system is. 

@retiredfarmer It tells me anytime  some one says a really cheap piece is better than a top flight piece You know the only thing that has happened is the good piece is showing  how bad the rest of there system is

You give them more benefit of the doubt than I. My strong suspicion is they haven’t even heard the more expensive product they’re so dismissive of. I believe that it is more philosophical in nature. Anything more than they can/want to spend is simply the result of hype, clever marketing and of course a good dose of the ever present snake oil.

Charles