DAC diminishing returns
Looking for some experienced input on the diminishing return as you go up the the DAC ladder. I mostly stream music and occasionally listen to CDs. Currently, I’m using a Schiit Bifrost Multibit DAC. It’s connected to my Naim Nait 5Si and that drives Zu Omen ii speakers. In my limited experience, I have not heard any substantial differences when changing DACs. I’m considering a Denafrips Pontus DAC. Does the significantly higher cost justify what might be a marginal increase in sound quality? Is buying a more expensive DAC for better sound just splitting hairs, and making you feel better about your system? Are different DACs just different coloration of the sound?
I don’t want to be duped into buying something I don’t really need. Thanks.
@bassdude actually if I’m not mistaking Schiit will charge you a 15% restocking fee upon return. So you”re down around $330 (provided it retails for $2200) plus the return shipping charges which could round it up to around $400 all in and turn it into a pretty Schitty deal if you ask me. I’d buy used or from a dealer that allows a return for a full refund in the event you don’t like it. Since it’s direct sale only you’re Schiit out o’ luck @jjss49 +1 |
@dsfreeh my thoughts about your question… There are differences between DACs that’s obvious. One important aspect of “diminishing returns “ in my opinion is it is reached much sooner on a system that’s not up to the level to reveal the differences and make you appreciate your investment and not believe you were duped into buying a component the potential of which you just can’t realize because you have other bottlenecks in your system. So basically my point is everything has to balance out. I have never heard a Schiit DAC or the Denafrips. With the denafrips figure anything goes wrong it will need to take a trip to China. That alone makes it a non-starter for my but that’s just my take on it. I would stick with something that has solid customer service and an authorized repair center in your country of residence. Just my $0.02 |
@mlsstl I stand corrected. Schiit return policy restocking fee is between 5-15% depending on product and for Yiggy it is 5%. So actually yea not too terrible in this case. |
@charliee I get the reasons…was clarifying their return policy since the details were omitted and expressed my thoughts about it. |
