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Best sounding new DAC under $2500?

I'm looking for a DAC ideally released in the last 6 months (since they get dated so fast) that is a best bank for the buck. If that happens to be a $1000 DAC instead of one for $2500 - great!

I've heard good things about a NAD and PSAudio DAC but not sure which model.
larrybou
stevecham
3,340 posts
 
I have a Wyred4Sound DAC-2 that I am about to send in for the SE upgrade, that includes the femto clock and other component improvements. I will post a review when it is back and I've had a chance to listen. $1299 plus shipping one way. I am already very happy with this DAC so I am very interested to see where this will take it.
blindjim
3,092 posts
 

Stevecham

it would be nice to hear how you like it when it comes back. Mods are always such a mystery as to what happens to the orig item once it is done, back and run in good.
stevecham
3,340 posts
 
Yes I will post a review when I have had a chance to evaluate the mods.
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
The Qute DAC with an upgrade linear supply and the Short-Block is very good indeed. I think it beats most DACs for HF detail rendering, even more expensive ones. The bass and dynamics are not the best however. I tried it with my Dynamo Hynes-based power supply and the Short-Block USB filter. Both improved things about equally. With these two I think it is the winner at that price point.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
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