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As good as Ayre QB-9 DSD but with SPDIF input?

Can you guys recommend a DAC that's better or same league as the QB-9 DSD but with SPDIF input?

Thanks!
nkbg
ctsooner's avatar
ctsooner
2,480 posts
 
NKBG, Love the system....I"m an Ayre integrated, Vandy Treo and AQ cable guy with Basis TT and Benz cart. I'm just using a Music Hall 25.3 DAC until the new Ayre unit comes out. I"m hoping they go with an all in one type of deal or something like that. I just think there are about to be many changes in the delivery of our higher rez stuff. There really isn't a standard and everyone has their own 'walkman' style device out. Even Ayre does (Pono). So far it's the best sounding of 'those' that I"ve heard. If there is a stand along USB only DAC like the Ayre, I'm thinking there will need to be a streamer or switching unit within a streamer for Tidal, Spotify and other components (digital) that we need to use. That would all then be sent to the USB connected DAC. I do think this is the future and I think it's closer than we think. That's the main reason I"m holding off right now. JMHO
marqmike
848 posts
 
Sim Audio D300 V2
Aualic Vega
Hegel HD25
wisnon
700 posts
 
No DSD128 is a big drawback, but specs are impressive and price is relatively low...

The new HD12 DAC is a True-DSD64 (native) DAC, with an on board digital preamp and a high quality headphone output.

Key features of this new DAC are an exceptionally low noise floor of -145dB and equally low jitter levels. In these respects it represents the best DAC we have developed to date.

Jitter wise, the largest improvement is reducing the level of “skirting” – resulting in a very much more precise sound. Together with the low noise levels, the HD12 can paint a soundstage like you never heard before. These are traits that also benefit the headphone output greatly.

The HD12 also supports all common files up to 24/192kHZ (including 88.2/176.4) on all inputs, in addition to true DSD64. A brand new USB interface / implementation makes this all possible.

On the input side, the HD12 has 1 USB, 2 optical and one RCA input. There are both RCA and true balanced analog outputs, and these can be used together if you want to add a subwoofer.

The remote control (included) can be used to control all functions of the DAC, as well as control other Hegel components.

Available in the US Warehouse now


Price: $1400
nkbg's avatar
nkbg OP
31 posts
 
Thank you for the info you guys! Will research these, especially the Hegel.

I've heard the Vega has more tonal saturation compared the Ayre but is in the same sonic ballpark, so that could be a safe (lateral) move. I also feel when changing gear I should try to get in a sonic upgrade if possible but, trying to keep it under 2-3k and open to pre-loved.

A bit of color on my usage pattern - my 99.9% use case is going to be Redbook CD, Tidal and Apple TV.
ctsooner's avatar
ctsooner
2,480 posts
 
If you like the Ayre, you won't like the Hegel most probably. It's much 'cooler' sounding than the Ayre or Vega. Some folks like the Hegel sound better as it's more immediate I guess you can call it. Just totally different sounding devices. I wouldn't say the Vega has more tonal saturation. I do think the Ayre is just more subtle. When you listen critically to it, you hear everything that was laid down.
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