I’m using an Aqua LaScala DAC. Very musical with my LUMIN U1 with upgraded XL - Power supply.
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. |
@moonwatcher I’d ask @vthokie83 to chime in here as he has the Pontus 2 with the Iris, and we both realized very similar results by adding the Iris. I noticed a quieter, clearer background and a significant increase on overall clarity and a more open soundstage. I’ve read that some people actually prefer the sound of the Pontus with a DDC to the much pricier Venus, so I think another DAC in that price range would have a very high bar to meet. To me, adding the Iris to my Musician Pegasus and using i2S was like getting a big DAC upgrade, and as you can find a used Iris for around $400 that’s an absolute no brainer to me. If you go for i2S from a streamer you’re going to greatly limit your choices and likely pay up quite a bit for it. Better to go with an Iris, which also is a reclocker BTW, and have the freedom to get any streamer you want. My advice would be to get the Pontus and add an Iris when you can and you’ll be a very happy camper. That’s not to say the Pontus isn’t already excellent on its own but that there’s potentially even more to be had by eventually upgrading to i2S, which is really nice. Just my $0.02 FWIW, and best of luck. |
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