Suggestions For A DAC

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

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.

http://audiogo5.iserver.net/cgi-bin/fr.pl?aamps&974953174&read

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!

Since you listen primarily to jazz, i would shoot for the Alpha ( 16 bit ). Not only is this unit very reasonably priced, the liquidity of tube midrange on vocals is outstanding, the slight warmth and wetness of stand-up bass is untouched and treble shimmers without being harsh. This is besided the fact that you will now have air, depth and width to your soundstage that you didn't think possible. Should you feel the need, you can even alter the tonal and spatial characteristics via doing very simple tube swaps.

As others may note, tubes are for people that want to enjoy music and not necessarily "pick apart" or "dissect" recordings. Typically way more involving without the need to be analytical. The rest of your SS gear should supply the speed and impact that your looking for. Sean
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