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Suggestions For A DAC

I ask your for your wisdom and comments on finding a good used DAC. With all the new technology coming fast and furious, it seems like there are alot of good deals out there on used DACs. Some that I am considering Cal Audio Alpha, Muse Model 2, Adcom GDA 600/700, Bel Canto. Are tube units as good as SS? Also, is 96k upsampling worth it? I listen to mostly jazz and my budget is around $500-$800. My current system is: McIntosh MA6450 integrated amp, MCD7008 changer and Boston Acoustic A-150 speakers.

Thanks in advance.

John
stereomaniac
jvr
105 posts
 
i like my birdland oden lite (new like 700 and some change). it is much better than p3p1 combo (i did extensive ab) supposed to be better than bel canto....no personal experience. it bettered my cal 15 (ss) on musicality. did not have the detail as cal....but no listening fatigue. it does decode 24/96. tubes in the cal line might better compliment your system. (birdland is the only ss piece of gear in my main system).

good luck
garfish
1,840 posts
 
I've owned the Muse M2, and Adcom 600 and 700 DACs. They are all very good, but perhaps a bit "dated" in the fast moving digital world. But they will certainly improve inexpensive CD players. I haven't heard it, but based on reputation, reviews etc., I'd take a hard look (listen) at the up to date Bel Canto if you can find one within your budget. The others are available at very reasonable prices. Good Hunting. Craig
lak's avatar
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lak
4,682 posts
 
I second the Bel Canto. I have seen used ones on Audiogon ranging between $600-$850. If you want to by-pass the preamp, go with the Birdland Oden Lite. There are discussions that can be found on this site regarding the Bel Canto, Birdland etc. They are both good and you can’t go wrong.
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lak
4,682 posts
 
http://audiogo5.iserver.net/cgi-bin/fr.pl?aamps&974953174&read
marakanetz's avatar
marakanetz
5,473 posts
 
From my experience it's no worth to by modern tech upsampling DACs which most of the dealers are going to convince you. The ideal DAC has no upsampling! Upsampling sonically can enhance or deplete the sound but will never produce a linear real reproduction. Try to shop for Theta Cobalt, EAD DSP-7000 MKII. These are the best SS DACs that I've ever known for the today's price!
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