help with DAC w/current system

The Mapleshade Double Helix digital cable is $120.00 new. I use it with the Bel Canto DAC and love the sound which is organic/analog like with fine detail and full bass. They have a less expensive version for $32.50 new (I have not tried this one). Both are with a 30 day return.

I have Classe CDT-1 and DAC-1. Cables are important and I recommend the Illuminations Orchid. You also might want to try a Monarchy DIP between the transport and DAC. I've been experimenting with the DIP, Illuminations Orchid and D-60. All of them provided improved performance to varying degrees.

I would recommend the Classe over the MSB. In my auditioning, IMO, I think the older units with top level analog sections, will beat the newer digital chips with cheaper analog sections. The MSB Platinum will beat the Classe, but you're talking $3k. At the price poin a used Classe goes for (around $1100) I don't think you can go wrong. I've heard the Perp. Tech stuff and the Bel Canto too. It's good stuff at its price point, but I feel the analog section is more important than the digital chips, therefore I like the older processors with a kick ass analog section and balanced outputs. Just my $.02.

The Classe DAC has been discontinued which is why it is selling for such a low price. If you can get a home trial or are not afraid of having to resell it if it doesn't work, then it is worth trying. I was tempted by the Classe's low price, but instead ended up getting a home audition on a Bel Canto dac (which I kept) and have not felt the urge to try anything else since (over a year ago). I have not heard the Classe but I have tried the Rega Planet at home, and the Bel Canto's sound may be to your liking. If you go for the Apogee digital cable, be sure to get the latest version and get at least one meter in length.