2023 DAC comparison: MSB Select vs dCS Vivaldi Apex vs Wadax Atlantis Reference


Hi everyone,

 

Title says it all - can anyone provide any insight/feedback in regards to these DACs? Yes, I understand their price points (especially the Wadax) are on the level of ridiculous.

 

I am coming from an EMM Lab DA2 with PRE setup (Shunyata power and cabling). I have only heard the Wadax Atlantis from a dealer near by me. From a sound presentation, it was impressive to say the least. I am wondering how the MSB and dCS compare.

 

I will probably attempt to update and give my perspective on these as time passes and I'm able to listen.

searoll923

I spent two days last week with an old friend in the Bay Area 

who has been selling the best hifi lines available for many years.

His store carries the DCS line because it is the best sounding product available.

 

Wadax is the best Dac that I had ever listened.

 

https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/subjective-grading-of-dac-that-i-had-heard-during-last-one-year-period?sort_order=desc

 

Select II, Ideon Absolute, Lampi Horizon, Vivaldi full stacks are almost in the same league just below Wadax.

 

Vivalidi sounds rather anayltical while Horizon is on the musical side.

Ideon sounds robust with balanced while Select II sounds analog like.

The choice of one of four will be dependent on system and personal taste.

If you can afford it, you had better audition Wadax, it is in another league.

 

Thomas

His store carries the DCS line because it is the best sounding product available

According to who ? High End Audio is about as subjective and personal as an endeavor could possibly be. That’s terrific if you like it but proclamations aren’t applicable to audio and music .

Charles 

https://www.whatsbestforum.com/threads/seoul-audio-show.36136/

 

#8

 

Matiching of Wilson and Vivaldi full stacks is the worst combination.

 

But with neutral  speaker like YG or MBL, Vivaldi full stacks can do better.

 

Thomas