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DAC Choice in 47Labs CDP system

Struggling to find a DAC which matches the musicality & emotional involvement of my 47 Flatfish/Progression combo

DAC's tried so far

Audiolab MDAC - awful - got a right toasting

Lampizator Level 3 & 4.5 These two DAC's were analog and natural sounding, but their presentations were as if watching a stage performance - distant. The sound was also rather skinny compared to the fat, fleshed out and 3-D 47.

As the sound with the Lampi's in was just too far away, the musicality just never made an emotional contact

I listened to a Chord Hugo, but that was with some Kef standmounted 'speakers and the overall sound was 'accurate' ('Hi-Fi')... with a top which was slightly edgy & uncomfortable. I am getting the Hugo into my system to trial

Other recommended DAC's from others is the Metrum Octave

My amp is the integrated Leben CS300 (EL84's)

And 'speakers are Zu Druid (101dB efficient) which are neutral to warm sounding
bonesetter2004
jesusa0
155 posts
 
I also own a Leben CS-300 and Zu Druids. My DAC is Yamamoto YDA-
01. It´s a fantastic one, with deep bass and great mids.

I´m wondering why adding a DAC if you´re very happy with the 47
Labs spinner.

Daniel
iramirez
68 posts
 
I run a Metrum Octave Mk II with my Zu Essence speakers. My speakers have the upgraded drivers so they are probably very similar to your Druids. I am very pleased with the Octave's sound in my system. It is a very analog sounding DAC. It is neither forward nor laid-back in its presentation, just right. I would second any suggestions recommending the Octave with any Zu speakers. Consensus seems to be that the Metrum Hex is a significant improvement over the Octave, but it is a bit pricier. The Octave is never shrill yet it is quite detailed. It images with great definition and it presents a wide, envelopping, soundstage. What I like about it the most about it is its pacing and rhythm. It is a very engaging DAC. I hope this helps...
syntax's avatar
syntax
2,193 posts
 
Wadia DAC from the 90's
zd542
5,339 posts
 
"I´m wondering why adding a DAC if you´re very happy with the 47 Labs spinner."

I agree. Why change it if you are happy?

"07-22-14: Syntax
Wadia DAC from the 90's"

What model? Not only that, if you go with a Wadia dac, you really should get a Wadia transport for best results.
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