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Upgrade DAC from AMR DP777SE

I have been using an AMR DP-777SE DAC which is now having intermittent reliability issues. I'm considering replacing/upgrading to either a
1) Chord Dave
2) PS Audio Direct Stream or
3) APL DSD ($$)

I need to buy used, and I'm comfortable with that. My hopes are for reliability, deeper soundstaging, timbre distinctions (ie violin & viola) and, most importantly, emotional engagement. I'm now 70, so my hearing ain't what it used to be.

I realize that responders are expressing their opinions, and my system synergy & sound room acoustics impact everything. I'm only looking for a DAC. I do hope to hear from you. Thanks from Olympia, WA USA

Current second system: flac & hi rez files→ APL DP-777SE→ Pass Labs XP20→ Pass Labs XA100.5's→ Ridge Street Audio Design Sason speakers. Cabling is all Jena Labs.
128x128rubinken
essrand
293 posts
 
It is very hard to find a DAC as smooth, engaging, and analog sounding like AMR, with the AMR you don't feel the need to invest in analog gear at all.
I owned the DP777, and still miss it.
Like yourself I moved on to Bricasti, it's a lot more neutral but has sound characteristics of an high-end analog system.

If you loved your AMR, don't bother with PS Audio or Chord and the likes. Look at Wavelength, Luxman etc.
soix
8,655 posts
 
You might also consider some of the better R2R NOS DACs like the Sonnet Morpheus, etc. as they tend to have a smoother or more analog sound that may be reminiscent of your AMR.  Best of luck. 
rubinken's avatar
rubinken OP
102 posts
 
Thanks soix, I have never listened to or compared r2r DAC's. With this friggin'plague, it's not as easy as it used to be. Thanks 
fsonicsmith's avatar
fsonicsmith
931 posts
 
I own the standard version of the DP777. Unlike you I have had no reliability issues but my two analogue rigs (see my profile) blow away the SQ I am getting with an Aurender N100H via WW Starlight Platinum 7 to the DAC. I ordered an SW1X DAC 2 Special with USB a month ago. When it arrives and I have had a chance to burn it in and listen, I will report back. 
rubinken's avatar
rubinken OP
102 posts
 
Thanks fsonicsmith,
I'll be curious to hear back from you. Have you had a chance to compare your 777 to
1) Chord Dave or
2) PS Audio Direct Stream or
3) APL DSD ($$) ?
I certainly enjoy the sound of the 777SE, but intermittent problems are making me a tad crazy.
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