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Budget DAC

Now that I have my vinyl collection and audio gear set up, I am now looking to put together a desktop configuration on a budget. Don't have the $$ to spend on a high priced DAC so I am looking for some suggestions. I would like to spend around $500 for the DAC. It will be paired up with Monitor Audio BX2 speakers,NAD C326 Integrated Amp and Digital Storm desktop.

I have looked at MusicHall, Cambridge Audio, Arcam etc. Also did research on PSAudio, DBLabs, Stello, Rega etc. Would like 24bit/192kHz and a USB option. Thank you for your help/guidance.
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timrhu
2,779 posts
 
I'm with Jax2 on this. You can do a lot of research or get the PS Audio DLIII and be done with it.
That's what I did anyway. It was my second choice, but I got tired of waiting for my first choice. Very happy with the PS Audio and I don't even recall what my first choice was.
jedinite24's avatar
jedinite24
1,503 posts
 
How about a Grant Fidelity DAC-09 with an upgraded GE 5670 NOS tube? I have this combo now in a secondary system and it is a quite nice sounding addition. New this would be under $250. Since the newer DAC-11 will be coming out soon you will probably find a bunch of DAC-09s hitting the secondary market. You could have a nice sounding DAC for under $200.
lindisfarne
511 posts
 
Kingrex
pmshow OP
25 posts
 
Thanks for the response. I am on hold until I see a review of the Schitt Bitfrost. To connect other than USB, what sound cards are you using in your computers? I am in the process of buying another and looked at Asus Xonar essence?
singleendedsingle
664 posts
 
In your price range the Matrix Mini have all the functions you need. There's one at ebay for around $350 bucks.
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