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Would an external DAC be of any benefit to me?

My primary source is a Western Digital HD TV media player, which is connected to my Onkyo TX-SR706 via HDMI. I have a McCormack DNA 0.5 deluxe connected to the AVR via pre-outs, which is then used to power my Usher BE-718's. With this particular setup the digital to analog conversion is being done by the Onkyo's onboard Cirrus Logic DAC. I'm also using the Onkyo's Audyssey EQ function (i.e. I'm using 'stereo' mode and not 'direct', as this yields an altogether more appealing sound).

I'd just like to know whether I could further improve the audio produced by my system if I added an external DAC between the media player and AVR.

Thanks!
vingard

Showing 2 responses by steuspeed

steuspeed's avatar
steuspeed
501 posts
 
If you are running 2 channel I would recommend California Audio Labs tube dac and McCormack TLC-1 or Micro Line Drive Pre. This combo should beat the Onkyo with no trouble. Buy the best tube you can get from Andy at Vintage Tube Sevices.
steuspeed's avatar
steuspeed
501 posts
 
If you need a remote and HT features go with B&K or Anthem pre/pro used. Add the tube dac and bypass your HT processor for 2 ch. HD media player digital coax out-> Tube Dac-> analog input on pre/pro. Run digital optical cable for HT sound and component video for HD video. HDMI will be out of your price range for these brands at this time. If you are watching 2 channel videos you should be able to configure your outputs for component video with tube dac audio which would actually be an advantage. I don't know that you can select a different audio source if you are on HDMI video input. Worth looking into.
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