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Zodiac Gold w/Volticus vs Bel Canto w/VBS-1

I am looking for a DAC with volume control and remote to use with my new Modcode 402AU. I don't really want to go with a separate preamp and DAC because I am trying to keep things simple. I have about 4k to spend.

I have tried researching the above DAC's but have not found much pertaining to their sound signatures. I like a sound that is a bit on the warm side. It must be involving and detailed without going to the dry, clinical side of the spectrum. Speakers are Von Schweikert VR-33 which I really like. Source will be a Bolder modded Logitech Touch for now and possibly a Mac Mini or other such music server in the future.

If you have heard one or both of these DAC's or have any other suggestions, I would like to hear from you!
mca
chrissain
470 posts
 
the bel canto dac 3.5 mk 2 vbs is hard to beat, very good sound.
doggiehowser
672 posts
 
Is it available as a dealer upgrade, the MkII?
bill_k
920 posts
 
The Mk II upgrade for the BC DAC3.5VB is available through dealers, but it is factory installed and has a retail price of $500. Quoting a description of the upgrade from the announcement at CES: "The DAC 3.5VB MK II upgrade delivers an improved analog supply that better isolates the PCM1792 DAC and a new low-phase-noise main clock oscillator. These changes reduce the already extremely low noise of the DAC3.5VB delivering a more engaging, musical and communicative sound."
doggiehowser
672 posts
 
The upgrade price is fair. Except my DAC3.5VB is in Singapore :(
chrissain
470 posts
 
The upgrade is worth every penny, bel canto puts another stage of regulation right at the dac ship itself, and combined with a even better clock, makes for a nice improvement.
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