2. digital
  3. 1268085861

Benchmark DAC1 vs CAL Sigma

I have an old CAL Sigma I in my system. I generally like the sound, it's musical & dynamic, however there's a bit of shrillness in the top end that I find off putting. I'm wondering how different a modern upsampling DAC such as the Benchmark DAC1 or a PS Audio Digital Link III would sound in my system? I'm a bit of a noob with external DACs so any input would be greatly appreciated.
craig_hoch
craig_hoch OP
65 posts
 
Thanks for the reply Michael. I haven't tried a different tube, but that's an excellent suggestion. Where do you buy your tubes?
Post removed 
lostbears's avatar
lostbears
538 posts
 

I have a Sigma II and it really is a nice DAC. What are you using for a transport? When I replaced my old Delta with an newer transport it made a world of difference. I now use a Audio Research CD7 for CDs. But I still use the Sigma II for my computer audio server. It replaced a Musical fidelity A324 upsampling DAC that I thought the CAL bettered.
sufentanil's avatar
sufentanil
782 posts
 
Craig, I purchased the Sylvania 5751 from Audiogon. But I often buy new tubes from thetubestore.com, and I've had great service from them.

Michael
jwong
56 posts
 
Can someone respond to the original question? I, too, have a Cal Sigma I and II, and have had good experiences rolling tubes for this DAC. However, I want to hear about options for the next step up. Insights or comparisons with PS Audio DAC, Benchmark, Bryston, or Bel Canto 3 will be especially appreciated. Com'n Audigoners, us Cal Sigma owners await your insights to help us evaluate our next DAC. (FYI, my transport is the Sony SACD/DVD 9000ES.)
More to discover