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Best DAC

Hey Audiogon,

This is my first post here.  I've been doing quite a bit of research and am looking for a DAC for my system.

My laptop will be the source.  I already have an Audio Research pre-amp that I find to be the best for my listening preferences.  So, I really don't need the DAC to do anything besides convert... no pre-amp or headphone amp needed.

I would like the most neutral DAC possible, and am tempted to check out the Benchmark DAC1 USB or DAC2.  I also like the Bel Canto DAC2 for its simplicity.  I will probably be looking on the used market at anything under $1000.  Of course, the greater the value, the better.

Overall, I am looking for the most neutral DAC possible because I believe that my pre-amp, amp and speakers should be the components coloring the music.  I see people mentioning that the benchmarks are too "harsh" or "revealing" but I think that may be cleared up by the pre-amp.  We won't know until its in the system, but I want to make an educated purchase.

Any input is greatly appreciated.  Thank you
mr_sacrimoni

Showing 2 responses by reggy

reggy
56 posts
 
@labtec Would you say when it comes to the pitfalls of computer audio a DAC like the one I have which is the Denafrips Ares which has the famous https://www.audiophonics.fr/en/diy-interfaces/amanero-combo-384-digital-interface-usb-384khz-to-i2s-...

"Amanero USB Module, with DENAFRIPS redesigned and optimized circuitry, allow the Ares to be used as high-end DAC with computers / streamers. It supports 24bit/384kHz PCM data stream, and DSD64, DSD128, DSD256 decoding via asynchronous USB input. NOTE"

would it really make a difference in the quality of the signal if I purchase a Regen or iFi USB 3.0 ?

I have a Razer Blade i7 7700 HQ CPU which is connected via USB to the DAC. Thanks.


reggy
56 posts
 
@labtec 

Great thanks for the feedback, much appreciated I may consider it since there is the money back guarantee. 

I play PCM content from an external harddrive to laptop through foobar using SoX mod 2 resampler as an available DSP. I am new to getting involved with the chain but I look and ask around and get curious once and a bit.

I once tried feeding the Ares native DSD via HQ player but found it wasn't worth it as my Razer fans were spinning hard. 

I am not sure if I am missing out on something with my setup on the server/computer side assuming I don't change the upline components. 

I will probably just wait and save money down the road to purchase the Yggdrasil Analog 2 and call it a day but we'll see, I am very patient in enjoying what I have for now and becoming acquainted with my system before upgrading. I have studio monitors for now (Genelec 8040B 's) fed XLR to a simple passive POT. 


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