Chord DAVE DAC

remember that a equivalent software package can do the same and more for $150 (FPPB-RT). You don’t need a $5000 box from Chord to do it (M-scaler).

As ASIC designer I can say it is not true.

In term of calculations power of performance Software can't compete to dedicated hardware in real time application, even close! 

I want the DAC to be accurate. Just want to hear the music the way it was recorded. But measurements don't tell the entire story...so subjective opinions and objective reviews from professionals are necessary.

The DAVE is an excellent DAC.  I  owned it for over a year.  

Keep your eyes peeled for a used one!  

Hope this guy gives you some perspective as Dave is compared w/ another world class Terminator II dac.

@blisshifi, I like that you mentioned synergy with the rest of a system because I believe that it is a critical consideration when putting together an enjoyable setup. After demoing several excellent DACs, and deciding that Rob Watts Chord FPGA designs were the flavour that I liked the best, I decided to build my dedicated headphone system around the Chord Hugo TT2 and M Scaler. Everything from the wall socket to my headphones, LPSUs, the power conditioner and power cables, interconnects, music server/streamer, RFI/EMI filters, tube headphone amplifier, and an Audiowise SRC.DX USB > BNC converter, were all chosen specifically to work seamlessly with the Chord TT2 and M Scaler so as to maximize their capabilities and to get the exact sound of music that I prefer. 
 

I chose the TT2 because I liked its tonality and its form more than that of the DAVE.  The real deal when looking at high-end audio gear is that you’ve really got to audition as many different types of DACs, amps, and speakers as you possibly can, and not be in any kind of hurry to spend one’s money. When you get into the Chord, dCS, Nagra, MSB, Tambaqui, Holo May rarified air of digital audio converters, to me it becomes a totally subjective endeavor. Shop around and buy what you like and can afford. Easy peasy!