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Berkeley DAC Series 1, anything better 2.5K$

Hey guys,

I am about to plunge for a used Berkeley DAC Alpha Series 1 that will set me back by $2200.

I have heard it in comparison with Benchmark and there is no comparison. I did A/B test it with the Series 2, but did not think the difference was worth paying 3000$ extra.

However before taking the plunge I was wondering if there are any other DACs < 2.5K that might beat the Series 1 (its pretty old).

There are so many DACs and so little time so thought someone hear might be able to help. Am I making a big mistake overlooking the new kids on the block (QuteHD or Yamamoto) that might outperform the venerable Berkeley Alpha Series 1.

Looking forward to hearing your opinions.
essrand

Showing 2 responses by soix

soix
8,651 posts
 
There's a Bel Canto DAC3.5VB for sale here. A bit more expensive than the Berkeley you're looking at, but comes with its own "Virtual Battery" power supply that really takes things to another level. I had the 3.0 and 3.0VB in my system for a demo and the VB version was significantly better. I think there's a new review of it on Soundstage or Ultra Audio or something.

Sabai, where does the NAD improve over the Berkeley? Just curious what you found.
soix
8,651 posts
 
Essrand -- better make sure you break that NAD in properly (if it's not broken in already) before making any quick judgements. Not sure how much break-in it requires (maybe Sabai has some thoughts here), but don't rush to make any comparisons as much as you'll want to. Interested to hear your thoughts.
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