Best DAC around 1,000


I hate to do it, but I have been searching for a DAC to match up to an old (10 years) CD player, with an eye to upgrading to a transport after the DAC, and thought I would make everybody trot out their "best of" opinions again. Yes, I looked, but I only saw several threads on best CD players, one on best tube DACs, and one on best DAC under $500. My interest is in the $1,000 range (other gear: Plinius SA-100 Mk III amp, Rogue 99 pre and Coincident Super Eclipse speakers).

Give me your best shot!! Maybe even just say what you bought (if in this range), but say why and what you compared it to. Thanks!!
seldenr
Look at the perpetual technology Dac and pre-dac setup - unbelievable sound from this setup.
I agree, the Perpetual Tech gear is way up there on the list. In my view, the ModWright Signature version of the P-3A DAC is the way to go for $1000. See Greg Weaver's article on this mod at www.stereotimes.com. I own the P-1A P-3A combo and would add the ModWright mod even before buying the P-1A.
I just received my EVS Millenium II DAC, and I highly recommend putting it on your list. The info is at www.tweakaudio.com Ric offers a 30-day trial, and the cost is $1050, with an unheard of 50% going to parts. It should compare favorably with DACs with resales of $2000-$3000.

Unfortunately, I've never heard any other DACs. I have owned various CDPs...a Luxman D300-something, a Denon 2650, a Revox B226s, a Rega Planet, A Studer A727, and a Pioneer DV05 DVD player. The DAC II is much better than all of them. I don't know if you'll like it best, but you should definitely consider it in that price range.

Ric had a lot of delays, but he's finally shipping. THe waiting list shouldn't be too long at this point.