DAC suggestion for PC


Need some help deciding on which DAC to use with a few changes I will be making for my PC audio setup. Currently I am using a iFi Audio Zen DAC v2 connected by USB (and a Fosi Audio Tube amp). Right now I am using some PSB Image bookshelves (but I'll be changing these as well) and a Velodyne Subwoofer. 

The change I will be making, is I'm looking at changing my amp to a used Cambridge Audio CXA61 which has its own DAC. The Cambridge has the ESS Sabre ES9010 DAC model. If this isn't a better DAC, then I'll look at the Cambridge Audio AXR85 instead which doesnt come with a DAC instead and keep the zen dac.

My questions are the following:

1. Is the CXA61 dac better than the Zen DAC v2? It would be nice to eliminate an extra piece of equipment.

2. Might be a bit out of my budget, but how much of an upgrade would the CXA81 with the ESS Sabre ES9016 DAC be? Is it worth paying the extra?

From what I understand, the model of the DAC alone doesnt tell the whole story, but how the unit is built and setup around it that also matters. Hence why I am looking for some feedback as Ive never compared or auditioned them with an A/B comparison. Thanks

skads_187

Do not obsess about a chip if you are truly interested in "better" sound.

A PC is a limited as a source so that a DAC is only gonna get you so far.

You might find that Fidelizer makes a bigger difference than DAC choice.

Get a separate streamer and ditch the computer before addressing the DAC.

Not a bunch of help with this but I have friend who I steered to CXA81 and streams The Spotify via an iPAD. He also picked up the CXC for spinning CDs. We refurbed a pair of B&W 603 for him. He is not a critical listener but he has been pleased with the setup. The CXA81 us a good piece.

 

Update: and yes get a separate streamer.

Any Streamer suggestions? for tidal ? I just liked using my pc because its easy for me to open the app and change songs, etc while working. 

So I guess getting the CXA61 seems like a good idea DAC wise?