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Time To Upgrade My Digital Front End

Been streaming via a LAN connection (through SFP’s) using my Gustard R26 DAC as a renderer and have been pretty happy with the sound quality, but I think I would like to step things up a little.

Many here mention the likes of Aurender, Auralic, Innous, and a few smaller, boutique companies as well. Most of these are a bit over my budget though.

I have been reading about the TEAC UD 701 DAC/Server/PA here on AG and some other sites and it’s getting decent write ups. I’m finding though that most of those threads on AG don’t have some of the more seasoned member’s opinions on the TEAC. Is it possibly not up to par?

The UD 701 is around $4K, under my budget of $5K. I’m not opposed to purchasing used (I see one on presently on AG) but would really like to have the security the warranty provides.

And I know, separates are preferred which the TEAC is not...

 

128x128navyachts
navyachts's avatar
navyachts OP
583 posts
 

@benzman - thx, I’ll check it out, although I wouldn't mind dumping Roon.

@curiousjim +1

vthokie83
862 posts
 

Navyyachts and Curiousjim,

I initially tried a borrowed N10 (last years version of the N20), and later tried an N200. I think the N10 can be found for about $3,500/$4,00 used, and a used N200 is about $5,000 if you can find one.....$6,300 new. I did prefer the N200 over the N10 (which surprised me), but it was very slight; damn I'd love to own either one.

I'm comparing to my current rig which is a Node 130 with LHY linear power supply, connected to a Denafrips Iris DDC, and outputting I2S  to a Denafrips Pontus II DAC. The Aurenders were a wonderful pairing with the Pontus. I did not try the Aurenders using the Iris DDC, as I did not have it when I borrowed those units.

navyachts's avatar
navyachts OP
583 posts
 

I did specifically ask about the TEAC UD 701, no takers?

russ751
38 posts
 

I spent a number of years looking for the best DAC/streamer. I finally spent the big dollars for a DCS Rossini Apex and masterclock. The upgrade in sound quality was astonishing.  This purchase put a big dent in my savings account, but the improvements in my system were exponential. Get a second mortgage, or whatever it takes, but quit exploring and buy a DCS product and never look back. The Bartok Apex comes very close to the Rossini. Please don’t think I am pretentious. I just felt the need to pass on my experience. 

ghdprentice
6,969 posts
 

@russ751 

 

👍 +1

 

I completely understand. A great component(s)/system is worth it… some things in life are worth it… really high end components are one of them.

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