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How much do you need to spend on a DAC to...

How much do you need to spend on a DAC to get better sound than your headphone out on a MacBook using PureMusic? Or for that matter using the DAC with my Cambridge 340C?

Should I go with something inexpensive for now and then upgrade later or just hold off since a low priced one won't really help that much?

I have recently bought new speakers and integrated and am a bit cash-strapped, but really want to make the best use of the system possible.

All of the advice I have received and all the posts I have read here on A'gon have helped so much--thanks to you all my system is better than it ever has been!

Thanks!
gustav1
williewonka
3,072 posts
 
Teajay - would you know how the Schiit Bifrost compares to the Zdac?

Thanks
tonyangel
309 posts
 
As mentioned, it doesn't take a whole lot to do better than the output on the Mac.

I'll add the Emotiva XDA to the list. It's one heck of a bang for the buck. I picked up an XDA-1 when they were clearing them out. I think I paid something like $200 for it. Since I got it, I've also tried a Cambridge Audio DacMagic, a V-DAC and a Bifrost. I wound up returning all three because they did not offer any advantages or benefits in my system. I'm still running the XDA-1. Emotiva is now offering their XDA-2 for something like $399.

Others that you might want to consider in the same price range (although they offer less flexibility) are the Peachtree DacIT, and the Wyred4Sound uDAC. I mention these because these are going to be the next two that I try.
harley52
79 posts
 
Even a low priced DAC will be better than the output on the pc.
mesch
3,427 posts
 
I agree with Sfar, the original V-DAcs come up for sale often used. Should be able to puchase one for ~$150 They have USB and a coax input so could be used for both computer and CD sources.

The PS Audio Digital Line IIIs also go on sale here often. One could be had for ~$350. Significantly better than the V-Dac. A true piece of audio. I am currently using one.

I purchased a Pro-Ject USB box here for $100 18 months ago. Use it to feed a headphone amp. Much better than out the headphone output. It is USB only.

All depends on your budget. Most any external DAC would be a significant upgrade to the headphone ouput. If you buy used your upgrade path becomes less expensive.

Enjoy your new system!
mesch
3,427 posts
 
Gustav1, As a followup from my last post, It seems you need to decide If you are satisfied with your system as driven by the 340C, and looking only for a DAC to improve output from your computer only, or, if you want to improve the sound from both inputs. It would be inexpensive to improve your computer output now and upgrading to a more full service DAC later. What integrated and speakers do you own?
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