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?
128x128swampwalker

Showing 1 response by lhegie

Audionut,

Where to find the Aloia cd player? How much does it cost? And, have you listened to the Spectral SDR 2000 and SDR 3000 combo. I am very surprised to almost never see mention of this unit. Thanks. Lhegie.