Analyzing DACs

@verdantaudio Have you compared the Lumin X1 DAC in your shootout? I need to get another DAC and trying to find a reason not to get a second X1. Variety would be nice or maybe not, since I like the X1’s sound and features. The other DAC I have on my mind is the Musetec 005, which I have owned before and much cheaper and also like (but no streamer)

I am curious about other DACs in the higher priced bracket. Along with DACs that have USB as their best sounding input, like the Musetec 005. I will stream with fibre optical Sonore OpticalRendu (fibre-to-usb) if I do not get another X1.

I will go with a 2nd Benchmark LA4 preamp and currently the CODA #16 amp. Although, I may keep the CODA #16 in the office system and get a KRELL XD amp for the new DAC.

In my opinion, the DAC is the second most important component after the speakers - it is creating the signal you listen too.

Agree on this.

@yyzsantabarbara i have not had the X-1 in for a detailed evaluation. I have heard it though and am familiar with Lumin’s sound.  The DAC I would say you must listen to is one I am about to write up.  The Soul Note D-2.  USB is unquestionably the best input.  There is a rich story behind the brand founders experience but that has led to some really incredible and natural sounding products.  You can add a 10 MHz clock to take performance to the next level.  The biggest issue is that it is DAC only so no volume control.  If you can live with that, it might be worth an audition.  

@verdantaudio That sounds interesting. If you are a dealer for that unit lest talk a bit more offline. I will send you a DM later.

@yyzsantabarbara I am a dealer now.  Several people had reached out to me and about the brand so I bought a sample.  It is as good as they described.  

I own three of the Dacs measured in ASR’s Best USB Dac Review. Regarding sound quality of each, their spot on the list reflects my view exactly. However, the high ranking SMSL Sanskrit ll lost function of it’s USB input soon after getting it, as did the remote. It is also the cheapest of the Dacs I own. It is the best sounding to my ear, but my other two have not had any problems. Very disappointing, but as said, "cheap is cheap"!