2. digital
  3. 1224780866

To DAC or not to DAC...

I am looking to build a high fidelity audio server that would connect to a tube amp.
The amp has only analog inputs, so after doing some research it seems that the best bet in getting good sound out of the computer would be an external DAC.

I have some music in 24bit format, so USB DAC is out of question(16bit output,only), optical seems to be the way of getting bit-perfect output.

Is this scenario the best one for my needs? According to my research, yes. But I would like some input.

A good DAC can cost up to 20k USD, but I am looking for something in range of 1000USD and under. Recommendations are HIGHLY praised!

mike
vdg
Ag insider logo xs@2x
drubin
3,275 posts
 
USB can do 24/96, it's just that many of the current crop of USB DACs are not designed for it. Bel Canto will be offering a new "add-on" to their DAC3, which will allow it to handle 24/96 from USB. I believe the Wavelength USB DACs can handle the higher rez files also.
vdg OP
11 posts
 
How about any TUBE-based DACs? I have not seen any good reviews about them..I wonder why.
jwmazur
191 posts
 
I am currently evaluating an Apogee Mini DAC with FireWire option. I bought it from Guitar Center because they have a 30-day return policy. This DAC will give you all the data connection possibilities, USB, Toslink, SPDIF, and FireWire. While I have been using it for about a week, I have to say the sound is rather involving and not at all sterile or bright as often the impression is given to pro audio gear. The flexibility is also a bonus on this DAC as far as the sample rate that it will handle.

While not the eye candy of the more expensive audiophile DACs, I am rather impressed on what this DAC does, and I believe regardless of that, it can stand on its' own.

Take a drive since there is a 30-day trial offer from Guitar Center. You also may want to try Channel Islands' DAC. They have a Toslink connection and a 30-day money back with a 10% restocking fee. It got a great write up in Tone Audio Magazine.
jwmazur
191 posts
 
As far as tube DACs, check out positive feedback online. They did a review of the MHDT Paradisea DAC in issue 31, I believe. Got heap-big praise.
luc
47 posts
 
I am planning a similar digital setup. In the meantime I have a Benchmark that I use with a Thule CD player (Phillips drive unit). I had Steve Balliet modify the DAC. It has a bunch of Bybee devices and some other improvements. Benchmark liked some of the internal wiring changes so much they used them themselves.

Before anyone asks me what changes, I am a sound guy. That is I like the sound more than knowing how it ends like that. I home demoed a stock Benchmark, liked it but was not totally convinced. Steve dropped off his modified demo unit, which I never returned. So anyway, when ever I can get around to the wireless computer project I will have a great DAC. Until then I have outstanding digital. Price new with mods is around $2000.
More to discover