Let's Talk DAC's


My current DAC, the Chord Chordette Qute HD is getting on with age and I am looking for a new one with superior performance. So far, I have narrowed down my search to five DACs. At the low end is the Denafrips Ares II and the Eversolo DAC Z8. Mid range the RME ADI-2 and at the top end the Chord Qutest and the Denafrips Pontus II.

This is for an all-digital setup in a 12x12 dedicated room. I have a much larger room with a much "bigger" set up, but for this room it is a simple PrimaLuna Prologue Classic integrated, Audiolab 6000 CD transport, ProAc Tablette 10’s, and a REL T/5i Subwoofer. I plan to add a streamer as well, but that is for another discussion.

I am conflicted with the choice between a delta-sigma modulated DAC and an R2R type Dac. I do like the FPGA technology in my current DAC. It has served me well.

I am certainly open to other ideas and welcome comments from those of you that have experience with this equipment.

I forgot to add; I like a wide and deep soundstage and good imaging. I also hate a rolled off high end.

 

 

 

 

desperado915

@arafiq no I did not, I had the Echos End then upgraded to the Echo’s End Reference, prior to the LessLoss I did audition the MA3, Lampi Golden Gate. I also owned the Mearson DAC1. All ore excellent DACs the LL EE worked best in my system. 

I went to Audition the Merason Freot  and left that day with the Lab 12 DAC 1.   

The little Merason sou dedicated good for the money, but i was replacing the RME and I was looking for something with more weight, meat on the bones.. ..it also has a beautiful tone unlike any DAC  I've ever owned.   Natural sounding 

Merson DAC-1 being over 5K is pushing the OP's budget as stated if the Hugo @ just under 7 is too much.  Holo May and Less Loss are also in the $5K range.  Merson Fererot is a different technology using the Burr Brown and with a friendlier price around $1700. Ladder Schumann is also around that price. R2R and of course the Qutest.  Only listening will tell you if they are an upgrade. 

Yes , auditioning is important with anything, but sometimes you are splitting hairs with similarly priced DACs so it can easily turn into a lateral move if not careful 

 

 

The LAB 12 is a very fine DAC @oddiofyl and you did not compromise one bit you made an upgrade. 

Personally if I were the OP I would audition as many of these DAC as I could.