DAC shopping - Trying to sift through the Hype. Can I trust the reviews these days ??
Hi All,
Well I've been reading a ton of threads about DACs. This is a very complicated endeavor, trying to find a new DAC. My 1st question is: Can I trust all the Youtube reviews these days ?
Seems like everyone is promoting the same DACs. I'm looking into a R2R Dac. Tons of hype for Holo May,Cyan,Laiv Harmony,Denafrips. Are these truly great Dacs or are they just the flavour of the month ?. There is almost zero negativity towards these Dacs. It's kind of like when the Eversolo streamers came out. Seemed like every reviewer was pushing the Eversolo. So searching for a new DAC online almost seems like sponsored ADs everywhere, am I wrong in feeling this way ?
That all being said here is my criteria for a new DAC (Probably searching the used market to get best value)
I believe I want to go with a R2R Dac, but it's not a dealbreaker.
My budget: $1000-$3000
My system: Bryston 3B Cubed, VTL(tube pre),Bel Canto 3.7 Dac(with upgrades), Antipodes Ds-3(player/server).
I really enjoy my Bel Canto 3.7, but it doesn't have USB input and I'm curious how much better a DAC sounds in 2024, compared to an older Bel Canto,. My BC has an upgraded linear supply. Once again this DAC sounds beautiful, but when its not compared to anything......Maybe I'm depriving myself of a better DAC. This is the only DAC I've had with existing equipment.
I know plenty of you will say go audition as many DACs as you can, but that is difficult unless it's hooked up to my gear. Won't help going to a store with a DAC being hooked up to different gear.Plus I want to buy used. I can buy higher end with a bit of a discount.
From my research these are the DACs I'm thinking of pursuing:
Laiv Harmony
Denafrips Pontas ii
Holo Cyan
You can tell from my choices that I've been buying into the hype.
Please add to my list of DACs and please dispel any extra hype over the most talked about models.
Cheers.
SNS For me (I use the Denafrips Iris DDC with a TXCO temperature controlled crystal oscillator), the combo of the DDC and the use of I2S from it to the Pontus II was definitely a 1 + 1 = 3 situation. The Supra 2.1 HDMI cable is terrific for the $60 it costs, but the Audioquest Vodka 48 8k/10k is extraordinary.....and I am NOT an Audioquest fan; but that particular cable is the best I2S cable I've ever tried |
If it's any help, I posted my review of the Denafrips Pontus Gen 15 here (under the Digital heading) on 11/13. I'm aware that this DAC presents differently from its predecessor, the Pontus 12th (based on what I've read, having never actually heard one). However, taken on its own terms, I'm really pleased with the Gen 15. Of course, it's all about personal preference, that is, whether this particular presentation appeals to your own taste. It certainly appeals to mine! |
We have compared many DAC’s costing upwards of $10K with the DAC below. You might consider this one although it is above your budget. The Limited Edition Signature Series Plus. Lots of positive reviews on the website. It is a modified PS Audio Directstream Mk1 DAC. See photo below:
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Consider a Lampizator Amber 3, 4 or 5. The 5 has the latest upgrades. However, all 3 are exceptional in the under 5K category. The Weiss 501 is also another option to strongly consider. Consider purchasing a used DAC to move up a tier or two and save money. I would also follow the manufacturer’s recommendation regarding the best cable to use. Some manufacturers recommend a high quality USB cable. |
