DAC recommendation for DSD input

@mitch2-- Thank you.  I am impressed with your knowledge and experience regarding DACs. 

@fasrfreight-- Thanks,  I just purchased the Optical Rendu a few weeks ago, mainly because the Hegel H390 had a low res network input (DSD64 only) and the Rendu would permit me to use the USB input. There seemed to be a pretty noticeable improvement in the SQ and I've been happy with it. My Roon Core is on an iMac Pro, not a MacBook Pro and the only app running on is the Roon Core. Nonetheless, I agree that a dedicated server would be an improvement. I could go the SGC SonicTransport route but I'm just not feeling that. I know a lot of people are happy with the ST/OR combo. In researching other servers or server/streamer devices, I'm finding the OR to be redundant and its inclusion seems to limit the choices for dedicated servers. Yet, the idea of abandoning it so soon after buying is disagreeable.  Can you or anyone recommend a server (other than SGC ST) that would improve the digital front end as well as make use of the OR? What about an Innuos Zen Mini MK3 ? Also, what is it about optical that causes you not to be a fan?

@mintakax,

I think of all the DACs mentioned above, the T+A, the Holo May and Mola Mola would be the ones to check out. I was ready to pay $$$ to those DACs that bring uniqueness to the table. I don't think you will be disappointed at any of these 3 DACs. I know most people will say - it is the implementation that matters - good for for them

Hi @mintakax, fair questions!  Like many, (and you) I tried several things to optimize and clean up my digital.  I did try an optical interface early on, but the rest of my system was also not great back then.  For me, it was getting an M12 switch from JCAT with and Optimo LPS that was a major leap up.  So I eliminated the optical, and I eliminated the Ether Regen, and focused on high quality ethernet cables with the switch.  Today I have two good switches in series, the JCAT M12 Gold and a GTT DeJitterit Switch X.  Together they sound better than either one alone.  

As for the computer, I formerly used a Mac Mini, with everything turned off I could to avoid extraneous programs.  It was good, as I am sure your Mac is.  But a dedicated streamer will probably add favorably.  Everyone likes the one they are familiar with, and whose software (or Roon) the enjoy.  I agree with that!  When I first got my Tambaqui, I was sure I was done.  No dedicated streamer.  But when I added the Aries, it got much better.

Take care!

One needs to consider the nature of their system to decide what is the best DAC for it. For example, my office system is now on the warm side with the Schitt Mjolnir v3 preamp and Schitt Wotan amp. I used the Schitt Yggi+ LIM DAC in my prior office setup which was a brighter system. With the current system the rolled off LIM is rather mushy; so, today I am using my ’too hot on top" Benchmark DAC3B on this new warm system and it sounds really good. No need to change anything,

@mintakax

Nonetheless, I agree that a dedicated server would be an improvement.

I have 3 OpticalRendu’s and these things are rather good. The beauty of the Rendu’s is that you do not need to keep the computer near the audio gear, like you would with a dedicated server. In fact, your computer (I have a cheap DELL) should be as good as a dedicated server if you are using fiber just before the DAC. Which you are with the OpticalRendu. The fibre acts as a MOAT against the analog gremlins that a dedicated server has also been optimized for, but at a high $$ cost.

BTW - Just an FYI there is a thread by the dealer verdantaudio (sp?) where he is now testing the latest $40K Linn DAC. This DAC can input a fibre SFP directly on the DAC. No need to use USB via an OpticalRendu. You may find it interesting and realize how good your Rendu’s are because you are doing almost the same thing.

BTW2 - my best DAC is the Schitt Yggi+ OG which you cannot buy anymore, and I will never sell. It is similar to the 5x more expensive Mola Mola Tambaqui. Mike Moffat at Schitt is a very experienced DAC designer. This summer they are coming out with the next version of the Yggi+. I am going to send my LIM DAC to get upgraded. I must say I do not like the LIM anymore. It was purposely rolled off on top and I got fooled into buying it. I think the next Yggi+ could be great.

Edit: Oops, did not see the requirement for DSD. Forget the Yggi+ then. I play DSD using the incredible D.BOB ($600 - $800) and my Benchmark DAC3B 
GeerFab Audio - GeerFab

I am unclear after reading the thread here as to whether or not the OP DAC in the Hegel does native DSD without a PCM conversion.

I haven’t heard the DAC in the Hegel so I can’t comment from experience . However if it doesn’t do native DSD and since the OP stated that “84%” of his listening is native DSD, then I would get a DAC that does native DSD . Why gaff around with putting so much emphasis into obtaining DSD files and then not want to optimize the experience?

fwiw I have had FACs that do native DSD and ones that do PCM conversions. I always prefer the straight unadulterated delivery. However we are talking about that last little bit of excellence