Better desktop DAC

Hi @Hilde45

Discussing DSD versus PCM is interestering, but off topic here. I just want the DAC to do the job for DSD as well as PCM. I am not so interested in DSD versus PCM filters etc. I have fifteen years experience with DSD recordings. I know the faults and benefits.

Forget DSD?

The above discussion maybe illustrates a broader point.

To get a good-sounding desktop DAC for a reasonable price, I should drop the DSD requirement. This is still a somewhat new and niche thing. 

If I keep to DACs with acceptable 192-24 PCM resolution, the range will be much larger, and the chance to get a very good-sounding DAC will be higher.

Yet - it wont do the best format (to my ears) - DSD.  A dilemma, since I have many DSD files.

Comments?

I would contact Apos Audio. They sell topping and a lot of other desktop dacs, so they might be helpful in narrowing your search. 

With most fairly new DACs I can play DSD files packaged to PCM using DoP. How much do I need the true / direct DSD capability? I've thought, maybe not so much, since I can play direct DSD in my main system with my Teac NT-505 - no problem. But I have found that the ability to play direct DSD makes a big difference also in my low cost office system. A low cost DAC can sound much better, with pure or native DSD playback compared to standard PCM. 

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Total budget; low to medium.

That means absolutely nothing to anyone but you.  Just give us a number please.