DAC for my HHB Burnit


I posted this over at AA, but thought maybe I'd reach a different audience over here (my apologies for cross-readers).

I'd like to improve upon my HHB Burnit, which I use as a player. Check out the players description and specs here.

I'd like a DAC that I can leave on all the time, and that doesn't need to be out in open view (so it can stay behind a closed cabinet door).

I value a more upfront presentation; palpable images, liquid, yet detailed. Don't necessarily need all the bass.

My first thoughts were something from Bel Canto, Birdland, or Perpetual P-1, P-3...

Thanks for any suggestions!
dennis_the_menace
Bel Canto is nice but a bit dark at the high frequencies. Skip the Perp Tech P-1 but the P-3 is very nice if you can find one with full ModWrights. Sounds nearly identical to the Bel Canto DAC2 but with a more open and extended high end. Bel Canto seemed to have a bit more bass but I think that's just because the top end is somewhat closed in.
Thanks Tom. When I said the P1, P3, I actually meant the P-1a digital correction, with P3 DAC, and monolithic power supply... I'll keep my eyes open for some with the mods.
Actually, also wanted to ask, if you meant were talking about the Bel Canto 1 or the 2. i think there is a big difference between the two, and i was actually considering the DAC2.
Dennis, I have owned a full blown modded P3 for 3 1/2 years and am quite happy with it. Got the itch about 8-10 months ago and bought a Bel Canto DAC2. Found it closed in at the top and a bit dark compared to the PT. I also had a P1 which did nothing meaningful and was too damn complicated, especially after getting the DAC modded. I sold the DAC2 two months after buying.

I think you'll get better music making from the fully modded P3 than the stock version with P1.
Besides the DAC, the digital cable is very important. If the signal to your dac is flawed, then so will be your sound. The DAC and the cable are more important then the transport really is in the chain.

Happy Listening.