2. pc-audio
  3. 1257297085

PS Audio PerfectWave DAC vs Bel Canto DAC3

I am about to revamp/upgrade my entire system and I am looking for opinions regarding a DAC/pre-amp. I currently listen mostly to iTunes (apple lossless) into a Cambridge Audio DACMagic and CA 640Av2 integrated, but I would like to substantially upgrade and move to a DAC/pre-amp combo with a power amp. The top two contenders are the PS Audio Perfect Wave DAC and the Bel Canto DAC3, both of which offer laptop/iTunes connectivity with usb inputs as well as volume/input control to function as a pre-amp. I have auditioned the PS audio but not yet the Bel Canto. What should I know (other than the Bel Canto DAC3.5 about to be released and the use of the Bel Canto USB link for USB to SPDIF conversion)? I am currently using Totem Rainmaker speakers but would upgrade those as well.
rogercmd
blindjim
3,092 posts
 

Rogercmd
>> What should I know (other than the Bel Canto DAC3.5 about to be released and the use of the Bel Canto USB link for USB to SPDIF conversion)? <<

Perhaps asking BC about this unreleased version would fill you in better.

I can only say what I know about the current version, as that is what I own. Several mags have reviewed the ‘$500 USB to SPDIF converter’, AND IN SOME ARTICLES SUGGESTED COLLATERAL MEANS for this conversion. I’ve seen a few, ranging in price from $100 - $500, and if a sound card of sorts is used, a lot more! I’ve also noted as that interface to the DAC 3 improves, so does the resultant audio . And with such conversion from USB, you gain more flexibility with regard to the file formats bit rate and word lengths.

Check the archives here for the DAC 3 info & reviews on it. Usually info on as yet to be released products only the manufacturer can provide such a thing if they choose to.
macdadtexas
1,794 posts
 
I haven't had the PS Audio in my system and have wondered about it too. I have had the Bel Canto 3 among others and after trying 7 other DAC's this year I am very happy with my Bryston BDA-1.

I am curouis about the PS Audio, I heard it at CES, but everything sound pretty good there.
blindjim
3,092 posts
 
Macdadtexas

Do you subscribe to the PS Audio email newsletter? There is some update info on the PW in there routinely. most recent letter talks about Paul's decision to make their own server now, due to issues loading up some other available ones... and notes on the bridge... etc.

I have it if you want me to forward it to you or you can probably view it online via PSA website I guess.

Of course each PW piece can be had or not, as your case is.
More to discover