PS Audio DSD Mk1 is a really nice DAC. PS Audio is FPGA so I wouldn’t call it older generation as Ted Smith custom programmed it and it upsamples everything to DSD - latest Sunlight firmware is only few years old.
Worth looking into and would be choice between it and the Pontus.
Streamer/DAC combinations
Looking for opinions on Streamer/DAC combinations. I am currently using a Node as my streamer and DAC. Considering upgrading. The options seem to be endless, so thought I'd solicit some of your opinions. My node is currently running through a McIntosh C42 Preamp into a McIntosh MC352 Power amp. Using Klipsh Forte IV's. The node sounds good, but I think I may be leaving something on the table in SQ. Not wanting to break the bank so to speak. Maybe spend in the $2-3K area for budget. Opinions???
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Consider the MHDT Labs Orchid tube based DAC (single tube), about $1200 new. You see used ones on occasion around $800. Very musical and liquid sound, but still plenty of detail. It’s been my primary DAC for several years. Recently tried a Denafrips Venus II to potentially replace the Orchid… nope, much prefer the Orchid. I think I’m going to have to spend over $5K to better the Orchid. |
@soix If I were to buy a Denafrips Pontus II - 12th DAC, how much will I be leaving on the table if I can't use the I2S connection? Overall, would I be better served by buying a different DAC in the same price range or would I still get a lot of the benefits from the Pontus? Thanks. I just don't see myself spending enough on a streamer to get one that has I2S out, yet I want a "good" DAC. |
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