Wyred 4 Sound Dac1 vs. Dac2

I went right to the source and asked w4s about the diffence in sonic quality with async USB. They acknowledge that the DAC-1 will not sound as good as the DAC-2 without the upgrading the CAPS ($50) and upgrading to async USB ($250). Since that is only $200 less than buying the DAC-2, not sure it is worth it. Guess they prefer to sell DAC-2.

I am back to thinking about the Ayre QB-9. For my uses, they did the right thing keeping the interfaces simple and putting the design into the quality.

Isn't the Ayre a thousand dollars more?? Wonder if it sounds a thousand dollars better? Anyone compare the W4S Dac 2 and the Ayre QB9

The Ayre is now about $1400 more and used are getting near new price.

Check out Computeraudiophile.com for some comparisons and lot's of reviews of the w4s. There are some comments indicating the bass definition of the QB-9 leaves some wanting more, while the W4s seems to have exemplary bass definition and presence. I have a high regard for Ayre but am leaning now towards the W4s. I will likely listen to the Ayre again now that I have my new GM EOS speakers.

Ok everyone.. I'm not up on my DAC knowleage..I plug my CD player into the DAC then DAC to pre-amp or pre-amp to DAC then DAC to amps? Do I even need a DAC..lol..? So a DAC Converts the Digital signal to an analouge signal..? Is this instead of buying a record player..? Sounds like a sound shaper..? Totally have no idea if I need one or will benifit from having one..Is it a tweak..? I have a Krell KAV300CD into a Bryston BP-25 pre to my Krell FPB350MCX...to my old school B&W 801's... to DAC or not to DAC ..that is the question..Thanks. D.

I recommend you check out the forums here and on the computer audiophile site and start reading the many threads on DAC's and transports. The answers to your questions are already covered.