Upgrading to a stand alone DAC


I have the upgrade bug..lol.  I am considering purchasing a stand alone DAC as 60% of my listening is thru my CD player (NAD C568).  This was purchased new 3 years ago for $799.00.  My budget would be $1500.  Rest of system is the Marantz Ruby KI integrated amp and the Reference 3A de capo speakers.  Would I hear a significant difference at this price point?

128x128wentz

@helomech and @kingbr interesting to read your recommendation. I have the Eversolo A6 (regular) and got a Topping D70 Octo Pro. I couldn’t figure out if the sound improved or changed for that matter but I do really like the functionality of the Topping- ability to choose All as output so that one flip between 2 amps (via a Fosi Audio amp switcher) and also that it shows the bit rate. Not sure how you both view the D79OP vs the E70V.

at this current juncture am thinking of getting a tube amp- MHDT Orchid. Any views from anyone on that?

 

Manu

I would follow @ghdprentice’s advice and get a Schiit Yggdrasil+. But you can get a new one, the “GSII” or Garage Special II, for just $1699. This differs only from the regular version because it has a first generation sound card and older USB input, using the original Analog Devices DAC chips of the OG version.

if that sounds like gobblygook, go to the website and resd about it - it’s listed in the “last call” section.

There are ENORMOUS differences in the sound of DACS. Just listen! I have the original Yggdrasil GS, and love it!

Mytek, Liberty II... tons of positive reviews online, has balanced out and for $1500 is pretty much impossible to beat. My local guys have a special where you get a set of $300 HiFiman planar headphones with the DAC. It’s a total no-brainer.
Just my opinion. Get to Google’n

 

 

Interesting, observations @helotech... may I ask if you have found qualitative differences in streamers or digitally applied cables?  Thank you ... Doug

 

I've have the Topping D90 AKM which is about 5 yr old technology.  I have never felt like this is the component I should upgrade.  Bass, detail, quiet, neutral are what I like.  The display appears to be going bad so I have been looking around. 

Denafrips is not with Vinshine anymore.  I see lots of the brand for sale.  Maybe they just sell more.  I have not tried an R2R DAC so I don't have an opinion. 

Laiv is one I see lots of buzz about.  Positive reviews.  No used yet.

Audio GD was highly regarded but now don't hear anything.

Bel Canto, Border Patrol, Benchmark, Audio Mirror, Audio Research are all established brands with varied sound and design.  Depending on your taste.