Best used dac under $2000

"You ever here of Plato? Socrates? ...MORONS!"

Wow, that's interesting that you preferred the MF over the Bel Canto and Chord. Maybe it's because I just haven't heard enough about it. I've only had experience with the Bel Canto DAC 1.1 and my current Kora Hermes which I love.

The newer Kora is the only external dac left (In my price range) that I would really like to hear next to the others, but as it comes up for sale used rarely I doubt I'll have the chance. I'm still playing with different cd players and dacs at home before settling down, I have only a couple more left on my short list. I have been very impressed with the MF dac, but ONLY when attached to a good, dedicated transport, otherwise it's nothing special.

The people at CES told me they thought the Hermes 2 was a big step up over the one I have. Although the exterior appearance hasn't changed, the innards are supposedly completely different.

Would you guys check my thread and leave some advice:

"How much to spend on a cd changer as a transport"

And Princess Bride is a classic!!!!

The Electrocompaniet ECD-1 DAC is a 24/192 unit that produces an outstanding 3-D soundstage, deep, tight bass response and detail that you never knew existed. It will accept up to 4 inputs so you can use a variety of digital sources. The DAC also does a very good job of breathing life back into some of the older recordings. I'm still impressed and amazed by its performance every time I listen and have to give it my highest recommendation. At $1995 retail, it's a giant killer!