2. digital
  3. 1326684221

W4S or Rega Dac - Opinions Wanted

I’m about ready to consider a new DAC, Price range $800-$1,400 max-used.
Currently I’m using a Music Hall Dac 25.2 with a VLink 24 bit 96khz USB to S/PDIF. I’ve also using an upgraded tube in the music hall. I enjoy the warmth of the Music Hall and the detail seems good. However I would like to try something new. I listen to mostly digital files, both Lossless and some Flac. Can I do better in this price range?
I’ve read great things about the W4S dac-1/ and 2, Rega and Eastern Electric dac. I have no way to demo these so I hoping for opinions from those who have listed to more than one of these. My associated equipment is Audio Research SP-9 MKIII, Wyred 4 Sound ST250, Music Hall DAC 25.2, V LINK 24 BIT 96 kHz ASYCHRONOUS USB TO S/PDIF, mac mini, Polk Lsi 9
bklynnupe
face
516 posts
 
I wouldn't call the DacMagic a giant killer, but does sound really good for the money. In fact, I liked some things about it better than it's big brother the 840C(imaging, soundstage). But, as far as transparency and dynamics go, either W4S unit wins hands down. FYI, I had all 3 in the same rig back either at the same time or back to back.

All it really comes down to though, is which you enjoyed the most. But if you're saying the W4S unit was analytical, something had to be amiss. Which input did you use? Source, etc...
bklynnupe OP
3 posts
 
Thanks everyone, I think I have my answer.
Face, you’re the one that convinced me to pull the trigger on the w4s amp. One of my best purchases for price and performance. Anyone looking to part with their a dac-1 with upgraded caps, drop me a line.
robbob
273 posts
 
Anyone who states the W4S DAC1 or DAC2 is bright or analytical has issues elsewhere in their rig.>>>

Face, we tried the W4S II Dac against the Rega DAC and EE Minimax Plus (SS mode) and the W4S sounded brighter and more analytical than either of them, with the EE being the most forgiving at the top end. My system is a pretty huge leap from "bright" sounding. My father, who's 71, doesn't find it bright enough!

Rob
sabocat59
98 posts
 
I have a question for rega dac owners. do you use the usb--spdif converter, or a toslink connection for streaming from your computer? Which brands do you prefer?
tubegroover
2,320 posts
 
Hi Rob

Interesting that our conclusions are different being that we both have Merlin speakers. I use a different amplifier than you, a Berning zh270 wide bandwidth and would think it might reveal more readily any inherent brightness or rolled off characteristic for that matter. I wouldn't call the EE Plus bright by any stretch in the upper frequencies but I wouldn't call it forgiving either. Actually it is in this area where the Plus excels but not any more than the W4S. Having both on hand I would say they are more alike than different in the upper frequencies. It is the overall tonal character and balance that is different and most apparent, fwiw.
More to discover