Best DAC for PC audio direct to amp

Looking for best bass, dynamics and textures for direct to amp connection, no preamp!

Esoteric D5
Wadia 521
Berkeley DAC

Others?

tpk12301-31-2009 2:16pm

philefreak Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 423 posts 02-01-2009 at 12:47am Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete Bel Canto DAC 3!
hens Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 173 posts 02-01-2009 at 09:20am Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete Get a USB to S/PDIF converter (Trends, Hagtech, etc) then feed to Audio Note DAC to whatever budget suits you. Even their lower level models are incredibly dynamic and musical. May help to have a jitter reduction device before the DAC as they don't reduce jitter internally. I know I've now suggested three boxes instead of the one that you seek but it would be well worth the trouble!
bikerduud Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 75 posts 02-01-2009 at 02:02pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete Get the Berkley. Robert Harley of Stereophile says that it performs even better than with a preamp in the system. Plus, it uses a "long-filter" which is similar in performance to Spectral Audio's top-sounding CD player, the SDR-4000 pro. For the money, this piece is a giant-killer!