DAC Questions

Just a note about the HDMI / i2S if you are considering buying a Lampizator. I own the Lampi Atlantic 3. I requested a modification from factory, to have them install an i2S connection, but it was not available. They kindly responded and, understandably, the i2S has not been firmly standardized, so there are a number of configurations and conflicting setups, making it hard for them to simply add a "universal" i2S. But beside that point, I don’t think you need it. I do understand the curiosity about adding additional reclocking. Before moving to the Lampizator, I owned a Denafrips Pontus II and had it connected to a Denafrips Iris DDC via i2S. That really enhanced the Pontus. But I don’t think you are working with the same format or playing field in the Lampizator world. If you really get an itch to listen to your Lampizator with an additional reclocker as mentioned above, you can pick up a high-quality AES/EBU cable to join them. But I would test that, if possible, before plunking down money just to see what an additional reclocker might do (or not). Instead of spending exploratory money on a possibly redundant reclocker, I’d recommend getting an Eno ethernet filter, connect it to a good streamer, then connect the streamer via high-quality cable to the Lampizator. You will be amazed.

My God, DACs are a rabbit hole! I was feeling confident about the Lampi, but now there are just so many choices. Geez! I guess part of the challenge is that as a relative newby to digital there is a lot that I don't know. I got a lot to learn. 

I’d recommend reading DAC reviews on soundnews.net as he’s done very thorough and comparative reviews on many current DACs.  Go by what the reviews say and by what you’re looking for and go from there.  The Lampi might be great, but you could also look at something like a Gustard R26 and get a DDC converter that’d let you take advantage of its i2S input.  Not an easy choice, but definitely worth looking further into.  

Thanks again, y'all. I always appreciate the support from Audiogon. The education phase actually is fun for me once I get over that initial hump of recognizing how much information is out there! Happy holidays to everyone.