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Bel Canto DAC 3.5VB MKII vs. Berkeley Alpha DAC 2?

Firstly, can anybody share their experiences with the Bel Canto DAC 3.5VB MkII? There are very few reports out there. Secondly, does anybody have experience with both this DAC and the Berkeley Alpha DAC Series 2? I have the latter and like it immensely, but have always had an interest in the top of the line Bel Canto as I have owned and enjoyed the DAC3 and DAC2.5 as well as several other BC pieces.

Thanks.
eugene81

Showing 2 responses by doggiehowser

doggiehowser
672 posts
 
I've not heard both in the same system before but I had the DAC3.5 which was upgraded to Mk II subsequently.

I always found the PerfectWave MkI more clinical, more neutral and perhaps a tad more detailed. The Bel Cantos always had that slightly warmer and more musical edge to me.

If you've heard the DAC3 in your own system before you should have a good inkling of how the 3.5 and Mk II sounds.

It's a similar house sound but just with lower noise floor esp in Mk II guise and more resolving in complex pieces.
doggiehowser
672 posts
 
Sorry I read it as PS Audio PerfectWave for some reason.

I have heard the Alpha DAC in the showroom and I don't remember being wowed as much with it. I actually preferred the Ayre QB9 more at that time.
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