Swampwalker: I auditioned the stock Muse Model 2 and the upgraded version with some type of added filter and HDCD. The upgraded version had by far the best sound, however it was also laid back in character and would probably be better suited to forward sounding systems (it might be a little boring, though smooth, with the Vandersteen's). The used model that I looked @ (approx. 1.5 years ago) was going for $1800 and the shop ended up selling it at this price, I was told. I do not think that you will find anything in the $500 price range that will better the DAC in your CAL, so will suggest that you demo before purchasing unless you feel that you can resell the DAC(s) easily. I consider the Bel Canto DAC 1.1 to be an upgrade, but it lists for around $1.5K and sells used for $800-$900. I have never experienced the HF problems that Subaguru did with either of my units and can only assume that there was something wrong with his DAC. What exactly do you want to change about the sound? Perhaps just a cable or some isolation components will do the trick. I have tried everything except the kitchen sink on my old CAL and might be able to help if you describe the sound that you are looking for. What is the player resting on and what power cord are you using? Though I only use the CAL as a transport right now, what it rests on still makes a difference in how it sounds.
DAC recommendations
I am thinking about adding an outboard DAC and using my CAL CL-10 as a transport due to high WAF. I would like to get an appreciable step up from the onboard DACs and would prefer one with balanced output since I am running out of single ended inputs on my pre. Associated components are:
CAL CL-10
BAT VK3i
DNA O.5 Rev. B
Vandersteen 2ci
As always, trying to keep this on a budget (preferably $500 +/- but would consider more if significant increase in performance. I have been considering Muse Model 2, Meitner BiDat among others. CL-10 has ST glass, co-ax and AES/EBU digital outputs. Would prefer HDCD also. Mostly listen to acoustic music and vocalists, with some rock, blues, etc. Any thoughts?
CAL CL-10
BAT VK3i
DNA O.5 Rev. B
Vandersteen 2ci
As always, trying to keep this on a budget (preferably $500 +/- but would consider more if significant increase in performance. I have been considering Muse Model 2, Meitner BiDat among others. CL-10 has ST glass, co-ax and AES/EBU digital outputs. Would prefer HDCD also. Mostly listen to acoustic music and vocalists, with some rock, blues, etc. Any thoughts?