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Best DAC for under $1500

Looking for a new DAC that is under $1500. Please advice.
I prefer a musical, natural, and smooth, sound with a good soundstage. The current short list consists of older Mark Levinson, Northstar, and Audio Research.

My existing system consists of magnepan speakers with a hybrid integrated amp.

Thanks in advance.
seanchau
seanchau OP
48 posts
 
Thanks! What about the Theta Va?
sgunther
187 posts
 
There is a Camelot Uther DAC III for sale here for $800. It was Stereophile class A rate back in the early 2000's. Also offers great flexibility in that you do not need a preamp. Just a thought and no it is not my listing and I do not work for Camelot. I have used the Uther IV for about 6 years and have not heard anything significantly better.
gmood1
1,251 posts
 
The Theta Va is a winner IMHO. Very musical Dac..no grain or hardness from what I could detect.
jond's avatar
jond
6,056 posts
 
Keep your eyes peeled for a Timbre TT-1, they sometimes pop up for $6-800, I used to have one and it was a real smoothie with great detail. It also looks cool. I rather miss it. It is quite a bit older but sold for about $4K new and is well regarded. Happy listening!
orfe
14 posts
 
find yourself a classe dac1 if you want reviews there are plenty of them
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