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DACS that don't do DSD - obsolete?

I can get a deal on the Cary Audio 100T DAC (with tube analog stage). It's supposed to sound fantastic but it doesn't do DSD without converting to PCM first.

I don't spend that much time listening to SACD's but I know there's more DSD material coming out these days. This begs the question - are non DSD DACs becoming obsolete? Or put another way - are DACS that do DSD more future proof?
larrybou

Showing 2 responses by mitch4t

mitch4t's avatar
mitch4t
1,602 posts
 
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They're not obsolete yet, but the handwriting is on the wall. Going forward, DAC mfgs that don't do DSD are putting themselves at a tremendous disadvantage. Any new DAC coming out more than six months from now had better have DSD capability. I can't imagine anyone that's thinking of plunking down serious bucks today will think long and hard about spending $5k and up and not getting DSD capability. Wyred4Sound has DSD capability for $1600.

Of course, existing DACs that don't do DSD still have a strong place in hifi.
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mitch4t's avatar
mitch4t
1,602 posts
 
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Larry, I have not heard the Wyred4Sound DAC. I've heard good things about their previous DACs...and for $2500, their newest special edition DAC looks like it might be a winner. Not enough reviews out yet on it.
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