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Looking for new DAC: one box or two?

Hello all. I am considering a new DAC to replace my Musical Fidelity TriVista 21, which is fed by a MF A3.2 CDP. For digital, I currently listen only to redbook cd, no SACD or computer audio (yet). I like the sound I have but know that the TriVista is probably quite outdated compared to today's DACs. My question is: should I look for a one box CDP/DAC or a stand-alone DAC that I can feed with my A3.2 CDP (which--knock wood--has been trouble-free for 12-13 hrs.)? Vinyl is my primary source, but I have a lot of cds and still enjoy listening to them. Thanks for your advice.

System: VPI Scoutmaster TT (SDS, upgraded clamp), Soundsmith Paua cartridge, Transparent Reference Phono MM2 cables, Herron VTPH-2 phono stage, Musical Fidelity TriVista 21 DAC, Musical Fidelity 3.2 CDP, Transparent digital cable and music link Ultra interconnects, Musical Fidelity NuVista 800 integrated amp, Transparent Reference MM2 speaker cables, and Wilson Audio Sashas. Also Transparent power conditioner and power cables.
arsh
arsh OP
367 posts
 
Thank you, Coli. I have not listened to those units. But it seems there must be other factors that influence sound, like circuit design, power supplies, tubes, parts quality, etc?
rhanson739
269 posts
 
Many, many people - myself included - have had very positive results with FPGA DACs, so I certainly wouldn't rule them out.

As always, YMMV.
sabai
2,027 posts
 
Rhanson739,

Coli's negative comments are overwhelmed by the positive comments of so many satisfied users of the PS Audio DAC. His comments will fall on few receptive ears, IMO.

Personally, I don't like PS Audio's marketing and I don't like their cheerleader-style forum. But they have produced a world-class DAC thanks to Ted Smith, with free firmware upgrades that have elevated the SQ of the DS to that of world class, IMO.
rhanson739
269 posts
 
Sabai,

I agree with you on all points you mentioned. Like you, I'm not fond of the rah-rah marketing, but the DS is a remarkable product, particularly for the relatively low price. With Yale Final OS, Ted pulled a rabbit out of his hat.

As for Coli (who posts similar drivel under the name ilok in other forums), I simply find it great sport to discover all the different topics she posts her anti-PS Audio rants under, and serve to balance out those opinions with a more positive perspective. Feeding the troll? Perhaps, but it is great sport, especially when considering that the troll has posted no constructive information in any posts I've seen. Talk about a one-hit wonder.
grey9hound
1,112 posts
 
I suggest Try a Lampizator Big 6 or MSB Analog DAC.These seem to have the most Analog sound.
I Know the MsB uses R2R technology and i am pretty sure the Lampizator Big 6 does as well.
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