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USB DAC Recommendation

Okay, so here's the deal. I am technologically...well...dumb. I just bought into a Mach 2 system, but I haven't spent my dosh on a DAC yet. I want a good DAC. I want a DAC that's reasonable (5Gs or less), but I absolutely have to have a DAC that's simple to use connectivity/set up--wise. I'd also like it to have real hi-rez ability, not just a NOS DAC (unless I'd be a complete fool not to investigate those). What should I be looking for? Thanks all!
tbadder
mvaudio's avatar
mvaudio
16 posts
 
I'm using one with a Mac Mini server and it outperforms my Esoteric X3SE that I used perviously. Great USB Dac.
Mark
mvaudio's avatar
mvaudio
16 posts
 
Antelope Zodiac Gold & Voltikus PS
face
516 posts
 
I haven't heard of one issue with Wyred's drivers, that's really reaching.
tubegroover
2,320 posts
 
Mezmo my experience with the MHDT Havana could not be more different than yours concerning detail at low listening levels. I feel no need to turn up the volume, all the music and low level information is there along with natural dynamics and the amazing tonality of this unit at very moderate listening levels. I can expect as with any product that it may be system dependent but for a NOS DAC with USB and tube output, this is one hell of a performer and less than 1K to boot and worthy of consideration.
jcote
100 posts
 
@Face: Nobody said there was an issue with the existing drivers and to be clear it's an issue with all USB DACs right now for anything above 24/96 on Windows and Mac OS X < 10.6. Only Snow Leopard has native USB Audio Class 2 drivers which allows 24/192 without additional software. So Ayre/Wavelength/etc all fall into this category not just W4S, sorry for sounding like I was singling them out.

@Marakanetz: This assumes you keep the same music server forever and never ever want to upgrade which is a rarity in this hobby. We all strive the latest/greatest/best so if an upgrade gives additional capability at the expense of broken drivers you'll find your self in a pickle. Is this scenario super likely...probably not.

@Goatwuss: And a lot of older PC hardware (especially those you mention) have legacy issues on newer OS builds so you've only confirmed my comment but yes as you point out as long as the company is around and the challenge is not insurmountable (or expensive) it's likely an update will be possible.
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