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DAC for iMac System

Looking for advice on a DAC, under $300 used, for iMac-Onkyo A9555-Era 4 desktop system. Would like to use USB, will not need headphone, volume control, just a direct hookup to amp. Already have USB cable and RCA interconnects. Thanks.
jl35
mesch
3,529 posts
 
The HRT music streamer II can be found for under $100 used. Goo as a starter allowing you to explor the DAC market. Alot of good $3-500 DACs available which will be offered on the future used market.

+1 Williewonka. The bitfrost is a good DAC but with USB may cost more than $300 used. Have not heard the Modi but would be tempted to try one as a starter DAC.

The iFi DAC recommendation is sound (no pun) and within budget new.

One additional thought, if you get a DAC with a coaxial input in addition to the USB, you can upgrade your digital source with use of a USB/SPDIF converter at a later date.

Good luck, let us know what you find.
williewonka
3,110 posts
 
Mesch - you might get a used one with USB for $300, but it won't have the Uber Upgrade which makes all the difference.

Mentioning the Bifrost was just so J135 knew I had experience of some of their Schiit :-)

The Modi and Loki are more in the price range, but have no idea how they sound.

Anyone out there with a Modi or Loki?

Cheers
mesch
3,529 posts
 
Willie, I am sure you are correct given that a new Bitfrost with Uber retails at $550. Would make for a great deal at $300 used. Maybe in another year? I am tempted to try out a Modi for a second system and would like to hear from someone who has one.

I see that Music Direct is selling the Moon 100D DAc for $325. They allow 30 day return. I have no experience with this DAC but it has gotten positive reviews at a retail price 2x the MD sale price. I would be tempted if in the market for a $300 DAC.

Though I have not heard the Music Hall 25.2, I trust Ctsooner's recommendation if one could be found within budget.

Anyone heard the Music Fidelity V90 ($300) or the Music Hall 15.2 ($300)?
jl35 OP
4,146 posts
 
I had noticed the Simaudio 100D but after reading up on it, was left wondering if it really was meant for USB use.
williewonka
3,110 posts
 
Jl35 - as much as I like Moon gear - I have one of their phono stages - you are correct in that the usb interface as they have implemented it is lacking.

You would need a USB/spdif converter, like the v-link, to bring it up to the performance of the other inputs.

Re: the Modi - it's upper limit is 24/96 - what do you require?

What about the Cambridge Audio Dacmagic 100 - $299
Looks pretty impressive - but I haven't heard it
It will process 24/192 via the usb input, but you have to switch it to USB-2 mode.
Reviews seem quite positive

Something to ponder :-)
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