2. digital
  3. 1438658708

Tubed DAC w Balanced Out & Volume Control

I'm looking for such a creature for my small bedroom system, to feed a pair of Hypex Ncore 400 monoblocks going into Harbeth P3 monitors. Right now I'm using an (original version) Wyred4Sound DAC2, and am also thinking of checking out a Benchmark - both have balanced outs. But I'd prefer one with a tube output section. Recommendations?

Thanks, Peter
peter_s

Showing 2 responses by zd542

zd542
5,339 posts
 
I would judge a dac by sound quality, and not some generic feature, but that's just me. The Aesthetix Pandora will meet all of your specifications. It may even sound good, too.
zd542
5,339 posts
 
Sorry, I didn't mean to be too negative in my last post. There's just been a run of questions lately treating components like they're generic items. "Should I get a stereo amp or monos?, bipolar or mosfet's?". Things like that.

Anyway, back to your DAC. I can't see you going wrong with the Aesthetix I mentioned, or possibly the Cary. (I haven't heard that model dac, but I have heard several other digital products from Cary and liked them very much). I don't know what your budget is, but if you're willing to go SS, you have a lot more options. A good used Wadia 27 or DCS Elgar are both excellent choices. I know there's other great dacs out there, but I try to recommend stuff I've used and know fairly well.

More to discover