Looking for new DAC: one box or two?


Hello all. I am considering a new DAC to replace my Musical Fidelity TriVista 21, which is fed by a MF A3.2 CDP. For digital, I currently listen only to redbook cd, no SACD or computer audio (yet). I like the sound I have but know that the TriVista is probably quite outdated compared to today's DACs. My question is: should I look for a one box CDP/DAC or a stand-alone DAC that I can feed with my A3.2 CDP (which--knock wood--has been trouble-free for 12-13 hrs.)? Vinyl is my primary source, but I have a lot of cds and still enjoy listening to them. Thanks for your advice.

System: VPI Scoutmaster TT (SDS, upgraded clamp), Soundsmith Paua cartridge, Transparent Reference Phono MM2 cables, Herron VTPH-2 phono stage, Musical Fidelity TriVista 21 DAC, Musical Fidelity 3.2 CDP, Transparent digital cable and music link Ultra interconnects, Musical Fidelity NuVista 800 integrated amp, Transparent Reference MM2 speaker cables, and Wilson Audio Sashas. Also Transparent power conditioner and power cables.
arsh

Showing 5 responses by rhanson739

"Coli, which ones do you consider "snake oil?" Thanks."

Gee, let me guess what's said next...
I doubt that we will get a legitimate response from Coli/ilok regarding his comment.

Coli is mad that the Directstream didn't work out for him, and is now spewing his vitriol for all things PS Audio at every chance he gets. In another forum, he called PS Audio a "dishonest" and "disreputable" company, even though he never tried to work things out with the company.

Classic case of projection. Coli can't accept responsibility for his own situation, so he one denigrates the company and product as being responsible for his "suffering".

Whatever happened to YMMV?
Many, many people - myself included - have had very positive results with FPGA DACs, so I certainly wouldn't rule them out.

As always, YMMV.
Sabai,

I agree with you on all points you mentioned. Like you, I'm not fond of the rah-rah marketing, but the DS is a remarkable product, particularly for the relatively low price. With Yale Final OS, Ted pulled a rabbit out of his hat.

As for Coli (who posts similar drivel under the name ilok in other forums), I simply find it great sport to discover all the different topics she posts her anti-PS Audio rants under, and serve to balance out those opinions with a more positive perspective. Feeding the troll? Perhaps, but it is great sport, especially when considering that the troll has posted no constructive information in any posts I've seen. Talk about a one-hit wonder.