DACed and Confused here...
So many brands/models/shapes/sizes. Everyone has an opinion.
I have decided to start my streaming with a DAC. I will probably just use a tablet initially with Quobuz or Tidal, before ultimately getting a proper streamer.
Looking for <=$1500. I thought I was set with the RME ADI-2 until I read here that it would require a new power supply and basically an engineering degree to make it sound good (not flat, not analytical). Is that price point too low?
System is ARC REF 5se --> Art Audio PX-25 --> Blumenhofer FS-2, with the DAC coming in as the source.
Can anyone give me some guidance?
Like the thread title. I love the Cambridge Audio CXN 60. It is in your price range and has a good app. It also does Chromecast and AirPlay and is great with Internet Radio. I use an external DAC but the included DAC is pretty decent and if you like it can accept other digital inputs. It’s as close to plug and play as any streamer I’ve come across |
You have some beautiful stuff and it will only show the deficiency in a cheap dac, IMO. If you’re just starting out, I would get a Denafrips Aries, which is universally praised, get used to streaming and then look for something else. The Aries has a very pleasant sound. You might even end up keeping the Aries. |
You might go up the line by going used with a Denafrips or a Chord, or others. In other words, get twice the DAC your budget indicates by buying from a reliable seller, used. My Schiit Bifrost 2/64 was purchased new and it's pretty amazing for less than $1k. |
