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DAC suggestions for a reasonably modest system

I have two systems currently fed by a SMSL SU-9n via Y splitter.  It's time to add a new/used DAC and get rid of the Y splitter.  New DAC will feed a VTL TL-2.5 + VTL Stereo 90 or a couple of different vintage SS amps (Sony TAN-8250 or Luxman 5M21), and just for fun, maybe a couple of Dyna Mk VI, running Magnepan 3.6R.  The SMSL does a great job overall, but seems to be a better fit with the ARC SP3a1 + SET or SEP amp into Altecs.  For those of you that have had the SMSL or similar level DACs in a similar system to mine and have moved up the chain, what gave you a nice step change?  The Maggies, however imperfect, are delightfully revealing and prior DAC changes were definitely more apparent with them.  Budget is $1000-1500, and I have no issue with buying used good quality stuff.  None of my system is less than 20 years old except the DACs.  

pickindoug
audioman58's avatar
audioman58
3,878 posts
 

Come up with $1900 ,without question the Denafrips Pontus 2 12th anniversary 

it is a excellent dac and I don’t own  but did ,I bought their terminator 2 ,

for a great price ,No dac especially a R2R dac is this musical for under $2k 

I have heard many I think it is the best dac under $3k,it’s that  good 

just read a bunch of reviews. It also has U.S service centers if need be .I have owned 4,of them ,my wife still has a older pontus 2 and never an issue.

pickindoug OP
43 posts
 

Thanks for all the responses so far!  You've definitely expanded my field of consideration.   

njcardave's avatar
njcardave
35 posts
 

Look for a Bryston BDA-3 on the preowned market. They come up for sale every now and then. Quality piece of equipment. Still on the Bryston website as their top DAC. 

dickieboy's avatar
dickieboy
37 posts
 

The $2000 deal on PS Audio DirectStream Mk. I factory refurbished and with a warranty has got to be the screaming deal in DAC's. I got one and an AirLens and love it. You get this through The Music Room who bought up all the traded in Mk. I's when the Mk. II came out. Highly recommended!

tko956
24 posts
 

PS Audio DSD +1  I just upgraded from an SMSL SU-9 to a PSA DSD and it was a huge step up.  I found one used with the bridge for $1600.

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