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Upsampling DAC will it improve over Alpha 8SE CDP

Hi all,
Just quick query to the collective thoughts here on the 'Gon.

I have a venerable Arcam Alpha 8SE CDP. I think it's a great player and has served me well. Made a few recent changes to my system, big changes really and would like to improve on the Alpha 8.

I see a lot of hype over the Dacmagic and V-DAC, they seem reasonably priced and I could dip my toe in computer based/streaming audio too, but will either of these or any of the other upsampling DACs improve on what I already have? I know the way to find out is to buy one and take it for a spin but I would really rather get what I need to start with instead of a lateral move. The only direction is up.

I am very curious to hear the opinions so let'er rip.
hunterg

Showing 1 response by hunterg

hunterg OP
8 posts
 
Thanks Celtic, I had a good little read up on Scott Nixon's Chibi DAC and I am tempted especially at the price. Just may have to try one; he offers a kit for $130 which is mighty attractive. I'll have to wager you on the improvement;). If I can get a DAC for $130 (unassembled of course) that seriously outperforms the Alpha I will be astonished, that said, times has the not so subtle effect of changing everything so I can believe there has been plenty of improvement in the last ten years or so.

But what about upsampling DACs. Are they night and day different or a more sublime upgrade?

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