New DACs High End Munich 2023

@jayctoy , I have been reading glowing reviews about this DAC for some time now. When this DAC was introduced, there was 1 user who had mentioned that they prefered the DAC 8 DSD over the DAC 200. But 99% of the users who own this DAC have nothing but praises for it. Also there are some reviewers here that I trust have nothing but praises for this DAC.
I am not sure how I am going to convince my better half, but that is what is going on in my mind, besides keeping my eyes open to other DACs. In case you decide to go with a DAC, do let us know what you ended up with. I will be very curious -  especially seeing that you have already very good components in multiple systems.

Hi Milpai, first I want to know which NOS Mazda's you are using with your Backert?  I've got a Rythm 1.3 and have some tubes that Andy sent me which I like but love to tinker sometimes.

Next, I want to recommend the Maerason DAC1.  In my rig (McGary/Backert/Fleetwood Devilles) it was a clear winner over Bricasti, Ideon and anything Chord.  I know they have just updated the DAC1 to a MKII version and raised the price to $8K (rumor has it they want to introduce a new model in between the DAC1 and Frerot), but you can probably get a really good deal on a used version of the original DAC1.  If you have a chance to hear one, it's worth the effort.

The Merason DAC 1, is a New Brand and Model to me.

I usually stick close to a DAC with Valves in a circuit. The report I discovered on the DAC 1 started very positively and I had to have a look into this one.

The findings are of the type, that would put it high up on my 'must get a Demo' List. The model can be found used, and could be acquired for $3K if initial offers are not overly cheeky.

If a demo' proved to my liking, I would even consider taking a punt on one, at a time when the model is able to be found cheaper at a later date, I am liking the idea of having a SS DAC in the company of my Valve DAC. Hopefully in the near future somebody with a eye for Topology and circuit improvements will have designed a Upgrade Path for the DAC 1. 

Hi @badgerdms , I use the Mazda greyplates from 1960s. I got them from Jesse Brent with extended warranty. Andy at Backert is a genuine and very helpful guy. I have talked to hm at length. Did you get the HP tubes from him? If yes, how do you like them over the stock new Mullards? I suggest that you write to Jesse about the sound you are prefer and he can help you decide.

Thank You for the recommendation on the Merason DAC recommendation. TBH, it does not do DSD and hence is a non-starter for me. I have about 150+ SACDs and I also up-sample PCM to DSD 512 in Foobar and like what I hear. I know we can go into a completely different direction with DSD Vs PCM - but I would not like to go there.

@pindac , I am not sure if I would prefer valve in my DAC. Valve in preamp is the best I can do. I do not want valves in my amp or DAC. And the Merason does not do DSD and hence is a non-starter for me. But Thank You for the suggestion.