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Would an external DAC be of any benefit to me?

My primary source is a Western Digital HD TV media player, which is connected to my Onkyo TX-SR706 via HDMI. I have a McCormack DNA 0.5 deluxe connected to the AVR via pre-outs, which is then used to power my Usher BE-718's. With this particular setup the digital to analog conversion is being done by the Onkyo's onboard Cirrus Logic DAC. I'm also using the Onkyo's Audyssey EQ function (i.e. I'm using 'stereo' mode and not 'direct', as this yields an altogether more appealing sound).

I'd just like to know whether I could further improve the audio produced by my system if I added an external DAC between the media player and AVR.

Thanks!
vingard
steuspeed's avatar
steuspeed
501 posts
 
If you are running 2 channel I would recommend California Audio Labs tube dac and McCormack TLC-1 or Micro Line Drive Pre. This combo should beat the Onkyo with no trouble. Buy the best tube you can get from Andy at Vintage Tube Sevices.
face
516 posts
 
An external DAC would be an improvement, but would be even more noticeable if you took the Onkyo out of the chain and went with a dedicated 2 channel preamp with HT bypass.

Even a $400 DacMagic will sound much better than the Onkyo's internal DAC.
elevick
2,636 posts
 
YES. If you need theater too, there are some much better receivers and pre's for 2 channel (not to knock Onkyo but...).
Receivers such as B&K or Sony ES will win hands down. Pre's like Anthem, Sunfire or B&K will sound much better. These all have much better built in DAC's.
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