Your original question was should I purchase the Chord Dave DAC or the Ayre QX-5 Twenty DAC. There are 16 posts "striving" to answer your question. Some people are recommending the Chord Dave DAC and others like the Ayre QX-5 Twenty DAC. Other people, like myself, are recommending you consider other DAC choices, such as the Bricasti M1 SE DAC.
Some posts are expressing strong likes, or dislikes, for one DAC or another DAC. I believe that everyone posting a similar like question on Audiogon has received similar responses. Based on my experience, the only way you can make the right decision for yourself is to listen to the DAC’s mentioned above. I also know, that in many cases, you might not be able to audition some of these DAC’s.
As you already know, everyone posting on Audiogon has a different opinion but the only one that counts is your opinion. All of the above posts are interesting opinions and information.
I suggest you purchase a USA made DAC since it is easier to ship back for upgrades, repairs, etc. You need to select the DAC that offers the features you need now and in the immediate future. It is big plus if your DAC can be easily upgraded. For example, I upgraded my Bricasti M1 DAC to the SE DAC version (Ayre offers similar upgrades). You need to ensure your new DAC is compatible with your existing equipment (for example, balanced connections). Does your new DAC have special power requirements and need special power cables? The most important factor is how does your new DAC sound in your room. If possible, I suggest you borrow one of these DAC’s for a listening session in your system and environment. I was able to borrow a Bricasti M1 DAC for my home audition. As noted, I liked it very much and purchased it.
I also agree with ctsooner's post above that you should audition the Ayre QX-5 Twenty DAC. It is a top tier DAC that sounds excellent and has many useful features. All of the DAC's listed above are expensive so you need to take the time to ensure you purchase the DAC that is right for you.
Some posts are expressing strong likes, or dislikes, for one DAC or another DAC. I believe that everyone posting a similar like question on Audiogon has received similar responses. Based on my experience, the only way you can make the right decision for yourself is to listen to the DAC’s mentioned above. I also know, that in many cases, you might not be able to audition some of these DAC’s.
As you already know, everyone posting on Audiogon has a different opinion but the only one that counts is your opinion. All of the above posts are interesting opinions and information.
I suggest you purchase a USA made DAC since it is easier to ship back for upgrades, repairs, etc. You need to select the DAC that offers the features you need now and in the immediate future. It is big plus if your DAC can be easily upgraded. For example, I upgraded my Bricasti M1 DAC to the SE DAC version (Ayre offers similar upgrades). You need to ensure your new DAC is compatible with your existing equipment (for example, balanced connections). Does your new DAC have special power requirements and need special power cables? The most important factor is how does your new DAC sound in your room. If possible, I suggest you borrow one of these DAC’s for a listening session in your system and environment. I was able to borrow a Bricasti M1 DAC for my home audition. As noted, I liked it very much and purchased it.
I also agree with ctsooner's post above that you should audition the Ayre QX-5 Twenty DAC. It is a top tier DAC that sounds excellent and has many useful features. All of the DAC's listed above are expensive so you need to take the time to ensure you purchase the DAC that is right for you.