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PS Audio DL 3 or MF Tri Vista 21 DAC?

Your thoughts on which is better? I was debating getting a new cdp, but from the advice of other audiogon members, and thinking it over, I think it is a better idea to get a good DAC to use with my current cdp, and wait until I figure out exactly how I want to implement a hard drive based system.

So, from what I have read these are 2 very good DACs, but which is a better buy? What are the strenghts/weaknesses of each. The MFTV21 listed for $2400 and Im hoping to pick it up here on Audigon for around $1100. The PSADL3 lists for $999 and I could get it for around $750 here. What about the level 3 or level 4 Cullen circuits modded DL3 at around $1500 new?

Should they both retain their value pretty well?

Thanks,
James

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In case it matters, I am using a MAC 6450 Integrated amp, and Gallo Ref. 3.1 speakers. Transparent Cables. The cdp is an Onkyo dvd player.
farjamed
brianmgrarcom
1,317 posts
 
Whatever DAC you chose, just be sure it reclocks the signal. If it does, it is my opinion the transport will not make such a difference as Sns alludes.

I haven't experiemented with coax cables to the level as others have, but the two I did I could hear no difference.

Brian
undertow
1,033 posts
 
All I can say is looking into the used components here on AGON I have not seen MORE available used dacs than the PS DL3's over the last few months.. I don't know what it means, but obviously they either sold a ton of them, or people are moving on rather quickly.. But I have seen about 3 a week at least come up, then again they sell pretty fast too.

I am not slamming PS as I own one of their best pieces and love it to this day.. I have not heard this DAC however, just letting you know my thoughts, as today in digital you can in fact Find some hidden Gems which would sound for way less money as good as a DAC that cost 20,000 10 years ago!
sns
3,347 posts
 
Brian claims transports may not make much difference as long as the DAC reclocks the signal. I don't agree, all DACs reclock the signal, some do a better job than others, the two DACs your looking at don't reclock as thoroughly as Esoterics for one example. I would try to audition various transports to determine whether they make a difference for you. I've found transports and digital cables do make a large difference, others here find the same thing.
johnjc
63 posts
 
I have the PS Audio DAC 3 its main issue is slight harshness in the upper treble you can get around this but requires good cabling or modifying the unit, it has more user options than the Tri Vista eg Balanced and USB. I think PS Audio our about to bring out a new DAC.If I was in your shoes I shop around there are some excellent DACs around that might over better sound and the same flexiabilty of the PS Audio, others to think about are the Stello Cambridge Audio Benchmark and the new Beresford
brianmgrarcom
1,317 posts
 
Brian claims transports may not make much difference as long as the DAC reclocks the signal. I don't agree, all DACs reclock the signal, some do a better job than others...
We all have our opinions. While mine is based on a little experience, I also had a conversation with a known reveiwer that states as much also. It is my understanding that not all DAC's reclock, and yes, some are better.
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