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The Ultimate DAC for Approx $10,000

Hi There,

Over here in Australia, it's almost impossible to go and evaluate high quality DACS.

Therefore, I'm seeking advice from fellow Audiogoners for help with a new potential purchase.

Currently, here is my short list:

Audio Aero La Fontaine DAC
Meitner MA-1
dCS Debussy
Playback Designs MPD-3
AMR DP-777

I currently have an old 10 year old Audio Aero Capitole MKII which has served me well, but is showing it's age in terms of absolute detail, Bass tightness. Midrange is still excellent, coupled to a Supratek Cabernet Dual Pre-Amp, set of 300B SET amplifiers and WHT PR4 loudspeakers.

Feedback much appreciated.
clipsal
ronnjay
36 posts
 
I also agree with choosing the Bricasti M1. It not only sounds wonderful but it is substantial and well designed too.
fiddler
581 posts
 
Save yourself a bundle of money and get the PS Audio PWD. It took hundreds and hundreds of hours to go to it's current sound, but I am floored by what I am hearing. The detail, clarity, 3-D soudnstage, etc. is amazing. PS Audio hit a homerun with this DAC. And the MKII upgrade is supposed to be even better. Hard to believe the upgrade will be better, but I have already ordered the MKII.
bobf
207 posts
 
So many opinions so little time:-)
clipsal OP
80 posts
 
Thanks everyone.

I've decided to settle on the AMR CD77.1.

The digital (DAC) area is changing very fast, thus more opportunities for DSD playback will be available in the future. In which case, I'll just purchase a DAC down the track as the CD77.1 is probably right up there in terms of best Redbook sound quality. In other words, today for all my CD's, the AMR makes logical sense.
bobf
207 posts
 
You will it enjoy it for a very long time :-)
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