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DAC Noob - seeking suggestions

My 2 year old son just broke my Rotel CD player, so I need a new source.

I am interested in the idea of getting an entry level DAC with reclocking/anti-jitter. That way I could use multiple relatively inexpensive digital sources, such as a computer hard drive or an inexpensive CD/DVD player, and still get reasonable quality sound.

My system:
Martin Logan Aerius i
McIntosh MC 2105
McIntosh C 26

I bought all that stuff when I was a bachelor, no kids, and the "toys" budget was a lot larger than it is now. Budget is a PRIMARY consideration. Something that could be picked up used under $300 would be good.

Is there any such animal?

Please be specific with brand names and models - like I said, I am a total noob about DACs.
alath

Showing 1 response by jhold

jhold
116 posts
 
For your budget, consider this combo new today on Audiogon:
"Msb link dac iii DAC with P1000 with nelson update/option" -- very reasonably priced.

By the way, if you use "an inexpensive CD/DVD player," then to some extent you'll limit the sound of the DAC -- the quality of the CD transport or digital source does matter. A good DAC can make a positive difference but will reflect what you feed into it.

Your Martin Logan/McIntosh components deserve a good source. Maybe keep on the lookout for a used Cambridge Audio 540 or 640 Version 2 CD player, or a Rega Planet 2000? They go a bit beyond your 300 buck range, but are fine players -- unless you're avoiding CD players due to the prying fingers of two-year-olds.
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