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DAC choice

I admit it, I am a bit lost on the topic of DACs. I have a Rotel RB-1590 amp and some B&W 804S speakers. I like my CD transport so far, although I doubt its DAC compares to a more dedicated one.  I do not think the amp or speakers are bottlenecks in sound quality, but am not sure I am getting the best out of my music, and I would like to get into more digital. I am trying to decide between getting the Rotel RC-1590 preamp with its DAC or a different DAC/preamp. I would welcome advice on preamp/DACs for $2,000 or less.
kumakahn
maritime51's avatar
maritime51
1,288 posts
 
I have the rc and rb 1590. They do make a fine pair!
kumakahn OP
48 posts
 
Please don’t get me wrong. So far, I have been very impressed with the Rotel RB-1590 amp, and I have no reason to believe the companion preamp will disappoint me. I just want to make the best buy I can. In my experience so far, the Rotel amp seems capable of great sound with any good preamp. My main concern is getting the best DAC I can afford in the preamp.  What about the PS Audio Stellar Gain Cell Class-A balanced DAC/Analog Preamp?  It is about the same money. Any opinions?
mtraesbo
46 posts
 
lot's of threads on the subject. If you search me, you will find info. That drilled down to

- Mytek
- RME Adi-2, which I bought
- Chord Qutest
- Project S2
luxmancl38
580 posts
 
The RME ADI-2 DAC is fantastic DAC. The Steady Clock is measured in Femtoseconds. You find this in the top of the line DAC's. Bought mine about 3 weeks ago and really upgraded the SQ of my Universal player and Bluesound node. Can can compete w/any DAC at twice it's price. RME is a 20 year old German Pro Audio company w/a solid reputation. This is their first audio product for home audio. Check out their website and the June issue of Sound on Sound excellent review.
maritime51's avatar
maritime51
1,288 posts
 
I have a bluesound node 2. How would I connect the Rme to it?  Yeah, I’m new to this....
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