HEGEL H80 DAC upgrade recommendation 2018


Hello,
I just purchased a Hegel H80 and am new to the "audiophile" world. I am however enjoying my new setup. I’m wondering if anyone with an H80 has upgraded their system to a new DAC where you’ve noticed a significant difference from using the onboard DAC (all things being equal, same speaker, wires, etc.). Please note that I got the amp for $650 so at the time of this post, I want to find a DAC that makes an audible difference but isn’t significantly more in cost than the amp unless the quality is wildly discernable on this amp with the DAC you recommend.. Open to better but older DACs that can be had for less used or any of the Shiit, ifi, SMSL, etc. DACs then please let me know. I really appreciate your first hand experience with the H80 and any recommendation you have to offer. Finally, l’d love to know if you found any difference between using the line or balanced inputs with your DAC. Thanks.

Hooman
hrabieh

Showing 6 responses by gcknapp

I have owned my Hegel H80 for two plus years, and am investigating a dac upgrade as well.  Currently am using a Bryston BDP-pi digital player into the Hegel internal dac, powering a set of Vandersteen VLR speakers.  Kimber Kabyle interconnect, speaker wire and power cable. Considering Hegel HD 12 and HD25 dacs, although somewhat dated.  Also considering Mytek Liberty, which just received a great review in Stereophile at $995.  Will report back with findings.  
Placed liberty in system tonight.  Beautiful, articulate sound.  Major upgrade to Hegel integrated Dac.  Many thanks to Dave at Audio Emporium for sage advice and wisdom.

A-Both coax digital and optical.  Coax sounded better.
B-yes.  Kimber PK 10.
balanced output.
I thought it was better.  The HD25 is somewhat dated and does not support latest streaming, such as MQA.