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.
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. |
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. |
Yes, in my case the Lab 12 is exactly the sound I was looking for. The funny thing about that DAC is I bought it with the intention of trading up within a year on a DAC that is 2 X the money. After a short time enjoying it I knew I was keeping it. I spent that money on a SOTA Escape turntable and Sutherland KC Vibe and got back into vinyl |
