Suggestions for a DAC


I'm thinking about using my meridian 506.24 as a transport & moving to a separate DAC. Would like to stay under about $600 (used).

Anyone got suggestions? or bruises from their experience?

Rest of the signal path is: ARC LS-7; SMC Audio DNA 0.5 Rev. A, Dunlavey SC-3, MIT cables throughout.

Thanks for putting in your 0.02.

brent
bgrazman
Hello, I think a good place to start looking is with the Bel Canto DAC 1 and 1.1, which can be found on Audiogon for $400-$600 used. I enjoyed a DAC 1.1 for 9 months and only improved on it by upgrading to a unit that cost much more.

It has a detailed yet smooth presentation, and the small chassis makes it easy to place on your rack. The compactness and lightweight can be a drawback if you use thick, stiff cables. Nothing funnier than seeing it floating in air while connected to a thick digital garden hose. I got good results using the Bel Canto with Kimber Illuminations D60 which is thin and easy to manage.
That Meridian is a good unit. Can you update that to a 508.24? You might get more bang for the buck. Plus you don't have to buy a digital cable and another power cord...

just a thought...
The 506 is very good. I don't know how you can improve it with a $600 DAC. You might get a different sound but not necessary better.