Best DAC with Volume Control?

I've owned 2, the Birdland Odeon Lite and the Monarchy Model 33. Of those 2, I think I actaully preferred the Monarchy, but I did not have them at exactly the same time, so there was not a direct comparison.

If I were looking for a DAC w/volume control, I would look for a deal on the previously mentioned Birdland Odeon AG-reclocker or the Benchmark DAC-1. They have both gotten very good reviews.

Enjoy,

TIC

The Benchmark I have been told offers XLR out volume control?

Audio Aero has a component called the Prima DAC. Actually it should be named the "Capitole DAC" becuase it uses exact D/A section and tubed output w/volume control as the Capitole Mk2 cd player. Retail price is 4995. Expect nearly the same sound from this piece, less the transport section of course.

There is one more added bonus. They are now shipping with 3 analog inputs on the rear so this unit is now a full function preamplifer.

If only playing CD's then check out Ric Schultz at tweakaudio.com who sells his EVS Ultimate Attenuators for $350 per pair, list price. The attenuators attach directly onto the amplifier RCA input jacks so that there is no separate preamp, and one less set of interconnects needed. You can use any DAC or fixed output CD player. These attenuators act as stepped volume controls with any amp whose sound you love. There is a model for either tube or transistor amp. This allows you to simply look for the best sounding CDP or DAC without caring if volume control provided. The main drawback is that adjusting volume is not by remote control, and the main benefit that the ultimate quality of sound is simply that of the DAC and the amp.

Nagra DAP
Theta Gen VIII