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Analyzing DACs

As I am new to the hifi hobby, reading various product reviews and noting the details of the test environment have made me very confused.  I understand Stereophile is the hifi bible. In the publication’s DAC published tests the reviewers almost always tested the DAC connected directly to the amplifier. I think I understand why—nothing in the chain influencing the DAC sound. Is that the correct assumption? If that’s the case why incorporate a preamp if the DAC has a preamp section that is a common feature even on high end DACs? I’m in the market for a new DAC. I’m trying to avoid unnecessary components if possible. Any thoughts would be appreciated. Thanks.  

tee_dee
lloydc's avatar
lloydc
751 posts
 

Larry said, “I would guess Jason Borne would know how to answer this question. “

LOL.  I wouldn’t. 

carlsbad's avatar
carlsbad
1,551 posts
 

ASR posts as many ridiculous claims as possible to generate clicks, which is how they make money.  Generally you'll be in good shape doing the opposite of what ASR recommends.  

thespeakerdude
483 posts
 

Without any advertising @carlsbad, can you tell me how much money @ASR makes per click?  I go there for the Klippel speaker measurements. Other than the dipole measurement they screwed up, their measurements are accurate.

charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 

I am familiar with the Soul Note product story and philosophical/implementation approach. Near the antithesis of Benchmark designs. Curious to see how someone who is pleased with Benchmark will respond to Soul Note. There’s only one way to find out.

Charles

carlsbad's avatar
carlsbad
1,551 posts
 

@thespeakerdude No, I don't know how much a sensationist disinformation site makes per click.  Are you thinking of starting a competing website?

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