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Sub-$1250 DAC w/ built-in Headphone Amp

I currently have an entry level headphone listening stack, that I'd like to upgrade for both headphone listening, but to also include in a HiFi system stack when expanding my horizon to speakers. 

Currently have:
DAC = 'Ol DAC' from JDS Labs
Amp = Atom from JDS Labs

I am a bit overloaded with the options at this price point, but I know am looking for a smoother/richer sound from DAC as opposed to an analytical/etched sound. The following DACs come to mind - would any of you recommend one over the other? Source is primarily USB w/ Tidal MQA paired w/ HD58X Jubilee's.

- Mytek Liberty DAC II
- RME ADI-2 DAC FS
- DA-Art Aquilla II DAC
- SMSL M500 DAC
- Schiit Bifrost 2 (w/ separate headphone amp? or other multi-bit DAC?)
- Other?

Further - should I expect a substantial sound quality boost from my current set up?
uwrwilke

Showing 5 responses by daveman2

daveman2's avatar
daveman2
58 posts
 
My 2 cents - used Chord Hugo 1, used/new Okto dac8 Stereo, or new Audioquest Dragonfly Cobalt.
daveman2's avatar
daveman2
58 posts
 
... but can't also act as a preamp. Hence, Chord Hugo 1 used.
daveman2's avatar
daveman2
58 posts
 
Sorry, I am mistaken, the Mojo can be placed into "full-tilt" output mode (100% output to an external device, e.g. not headphones). But it would not provide pre-amp volume control through it's 3.5mm jack.
daveman2's avatar
daveman2
58 posts
 
I say this only for the sake of the OP - I don't want to beat a dead horse. I was wrong again. It seems that the Mojo can function in a full-fledged pre-amp mode (not just fixed 100% output). Can someone who owns one chime in? I have one that should be here early this week.
daveman2's avatar
daveman2
58 posts
 
I have to follow up... I received a new/used Mojo/Poly yesterday, and the Mojo is amazing. More refined than the AQ Cobalt, IMO. I have to agree with the other comments... It is outstanding for $500, or any price, really.
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