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Recommend me a DAC under 3k

Hi All,

Long time reader, first time poster!

I’m expanding my all-analog system to add a proper digital front end and would like recommendations for a DAC to connect to my Wiim pro plus.


Listening Habits:

I primarily listen to LPs, but appreciate the convenience and discoverability that digital provides. I don’t have a digital music library and only stream via Tidal and Spotify. My 2-channel system does double duty as a sound system for our TV as well.


Requirements:

  • All-in <= $3k
  • Prioritizes sound quality above all else
  • Streaming supports Tidal Connect directly or via some other protocol
  • TosLink Input (for casual TV)


Personal Preferences:

  • When tuning components in my system, I’ve preferred ones that are more detailed/transparent rather than overly warm/harmonic. E.g. Telefunken over Amperex or Mullard. Duelund CAST over AN copper.
  • Realistic tone/timbre, soundstage, micro-detail, and impactful bass are important to me.


Currently under consideration:

  • Denafrips Pontus II 12th
  • Denafrips Venus II
  • Schiit Yggdrasil
  • ANK DAC 4.1x (with Duelund caps, etc)
  • Gustard R26


The rest of my system is as follows:

  • CSS 2TD-x tower speakers (neutral with some mid-bass warmth)
  • ANK EL34 35W Monoblocks
  • ANK L5 Mentor Preamp
  • ANK L3 Phono V2
  • Mofi Ultradeck with Master Tracker cartridge
  • Richard Gray 600RM Pro Power Conditioner
kuhyay
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liquidsound
154 posts
 

You all shouldn't rule out the BorderPatrol DAC...  I have one and really enjoy it immensly !  The tube in the DAC can be switched in or out and is not in the analog circuitry  Not expensive, analog sounding, built here in the U.S. and Gary Dews is great to work with.  

dhite71
331 posts
 

@kuhyay 

I think we can all appreciate brand synergy for both sound and aesthetics.  I see you are leaning to ANK which will match your other gear. 
 

i have had limited experiences with DACs with only two brands, Schiit and Audio Research.  I started with Gungnir and moved to Yggy and heard the improvements.  My other gear is ARC so then tried a DAC 8 and was definitely an improvement over the Yggy. ARC doesn’t seem to have much respect towards their DACs as I rarely see them mentioned but they have worked quite wellbin my system. I now have. CD 6 for dual purpose.  
 

These are all easy to buy/sell used and ship so I would encourage you to try several over time snd make sure you find the one you love. 

chowkwan
167 posts
 

Burl b good. Crane Song Solaris Quantum DAC better. $2k from Sweetwater.

90% of the sound of the Nagra HD DAC X at 3% of the price.

Takeaway: look at pro audio.

wspohn's avatar
wspohn
608 posts
 

I'd add Hegel to your list - anything from the HD 12 through H 120 do a great job.

fynnegan
114 posts
 

I think the question begs for a streaming function which does not leave many options. Those from Lumin and Auralic come to mind. Lumin’s software is solid a used T2 or T1 which is easier to find. 

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