The choice between the dcs Bartok vs the DENAFRIPS Terminator-Plus is not going to be an easy decision. This decision is further complicated by maybe considering some other DAC's such as MSB Discrete, Bricasti (M1SE or M21), Chord, DAVE, Holo Audio May KTE DAC, etc. Additional DAC's should be added to this list.
If possible, I strongly suggest you audition these DAC's before you make your decision. Based on the responses you received so far, there is no consensus on what to purchase.
I went through a similar process and purchased the Bricasti M21 DAC. The addition of the M21 substantially improved the sound quality of my audio system. To my ears, everything sounds truly outstanding. The M21's “advanced architecture means you can select, evaluate and enjoy three independent digital to analog converter signal paths: 24-bit delta sigma, 20-bit ladder DAC (I use the R2R option) and true 1-bit DSD for DSD content. The M21 is a world class DAC and is recommended.
My plan was to audition the DAC before I purchased it and, preferably, in my home and in my system. I purchased the Bricasti because it sounded great in my home. Both the dcs Bartok vs the DENAFRIPS Terminator-Plus are great DAC options and I suggest you arrange for a home demo to help you make a decision. I hope this helps.
If possible, I strongly suggest you audition these DAC's before you make your decision. Based on the responses you received so far, there is no consensus on what to purchase.
I went through a similar process and purchased the Bricasti M21 DAC. The addition of the M21 substantially improved the sound quality of my audio system. To my ears, everything sounds truly outstanding. The M21's “advanced architecture means you can select, evaluate and enjoy three independent digital to analog converter signal paths: 24-bit delta sigma, 20-bit ladder DAC (I use the R2R option) and true 1-bit DSD for DSD content. The M21 is a world class DAC and is recommended.
My plan was to audition the DAC before I purchased it and, preferably, in my home and in my system. I purchased the Bricasti because it sounded great in my home. Both the dcs Bartok vs the DENAFRIPS Terminator-Plus are great DAC options and I suggest you arrange for a home demo to help you make a decision. I hope this helps.