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New DSD DAC. Recommendations please

Hi all,

I'm currently using a Emm Labs DAC2 and a Vitus CD player (using the DAC via macbook pro) but am looking for a new DAC that can play hi-res/DSD files.

I'm not up to speed with the latest DAC's so appreciate some advice. Any recommendations for a great DAC that can play DSD files. Don't want to spend too much money on it (+- $5000 for used item), so I explore how much improvement DSD will make.

Appreciate your feedback
hififreakk
kr4's avatar
kr4
3,680 posts
 
The exaSound DACs will play up to 4xDSD as well as DXD. Also, the e28 will handle up to 8 channels. Some more comments here: http://forum.stereophile.com/content/music-round-63-page-2
nonoise's avatar
nonoise
10,873 posts
 
If you just want to get your feet wet with DSD, then this might be your ticket:
http://schiit.com/products/loki

It's only $149 and does DSD only as Schiit believes that DSD filtering and other types are wholly incompatible which makes implementation difficult. That, and they don't really see the benefits of DSD but if you want to try it.....

All the best,
Nonoise
wisnon
700 posts
 
Sandstone, it just SOUNDS better. I don't know why. Its not a bigger is better thing, I make the statement off unexcited experience. I did not expect (or want DSD128) to be better, but it is. Best digital I have heard so far.

Oh, and nothing against Ayre, as I really like Charles. However, unless you buy the new QB-9 with DSD, you will wait months for an upgrade (check comp audiophile). Additionally, its only DSD64. Charles said he would not do more as there is not enough 128 media. However, I find a lot of the benefit come simply from upsampling DSD64 to 128 offline and playing back at 128. Te same can be done even for RBCD, so media is not a limitation.
skootb
68 posts
 
Mytek?

http://mytekdigital.com/hifi
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