2. digital
  3. 187935-178608

DAC upgrade

Let me start by saying I am a vinyl guy, but digital streaming, particularly if I can achieve the right sound has many advantages. My 2 channel equipment is as follows: 

Rogue RP-1 w/ NOS Brimar CV4003, LSA Warp 1, KEF R11’s, Rhythmic F12SE, Pro-ject 1Xpression w/Hana ML, Rega Aria, Bluesound Node, Marantz CD6007, Schiit Modi Multibit 2. Good to very good power, speaker, interconnect cables.  
My weakest link (I believe) is my DAC.

My desire is the best sounding DAC below $2,500, but certainly don’t mind spending less. i want the DAC to be as good as my best current component. I don’t need a DAC with preampliflication, don’t need balanced, don’t need headphones, however I would not eliminate a DAC with superior sound with those features. I do prefer a small form factor.  
My current top contenders are:

Chord Qutest, Schiit Yggy, RME ADI-2, Topping D90 III.

The Chord checks all my boxes… reviews, sound, form factor, no unneeded features, etc and don’t mind its quirky lights… but, looking your thoughts/ recommendations.  Thanks!

 

 

128x128signaforce
Ag insider logo xs@2x
gubaface
24 posts
 

I would also consider Simaudio Moon MiND 2 streamer.

I have it in addition to the dCS Network Bridge and Moon, while as not as good as Bridge, comes pretty close.

signaforce's avatar
signaforce OP
139 posts
 

@helomech 

Sorry if you don’t like my R11’s and/or my Warp 1. While speakers are a matter of taste (and measurements) the R11’s are very well reviewed & were EISA award winners for best high end speakers. I consider them to be a strength, perhaps my strongest component. 
I needed a class D amp for form factor. The LSA is also very well reviewed and (I think) the best price performance class D amp on the market… albeit maybe a little underpowered for my KEF’s. 
My MM2 is definitely my weak link. Thanks 

signaforce's avatar
signaforce OP
139 posts
 

The addition of my Rogue tube preamp with NOS Brimar’s brought (perhaps needed) warmth to my system. That was an excellent addition. Very nice combination. 

dr-boop
47 posts
 

If you have the new Node (N130), try the USB Audio output to the Chord Qutest

gillsysb
55 posts
 

A bit late to the game, but in my opinion the delta sigma dacs can be quite resolving, but lose on soundstage. R2R dacs typically excell at soundstage, and with good material, put the vocalist in the room with you. I did audition a Chord Qtest once, and it did nothing for me. I bought a Gustard R26 dac, and have no interest in looking any further. Glad you arrived, enjoy!

More to discover