Chord Dave


It won't be for everyone. I'm not saying it's the best. I've owned several DACs and after owning the Dave for a couple of weeks all I can say is WOW! This is the closest to hearing a night and day difference between components that I've experienced. The Dave differentiates between recording venues better than anything I've owned. Detail, soundstage, air, vocals, attack and dynamics are truly outstanding. I'm saying all of this and I'm using the standard power cord. If you're looking for a new DAC, give the Dave a listen.  
ricred1
hgeifman, 

I've talked to you several times about the Dave and with all due respect, you need to listen to the Dave in your own system and let your own ears decide. If you can't listen in your own system,  take what ever DAC you own and compare it to the Dave and/ or other DACs at the dealers store. No matter what I think or anyone else,  it's just our opinion. Only your opinion counts.
I’m just trying to say what I always say, no absolutes in Audio, only preferences. Someone highly encouraged me to listen to the Rockna Wavedream Edition DAC. I had easy access to it, it was in my price range for DACs, so I had nothing to loose. My initial thoughts were it had more detail than the Dave, but after a few days my wife and I decided we preferred the Dave. Who’s right? The answer of course is no one...I have a different system and different preferences. You may hear the Dave and not like it or conclude it’s not worth the money.
I just listened to Audioquest FireBird Zero speaker cables for three days. They are a step-up from my current cables, but at $14K for an 8’ pair I can’t justify the cost. If money weren’t a concern I would immediately purchase them. I put components in specific price ranges of what I’m willing to spend. $14K far exceeds my budget for speaker cables.
dguitarnut,

I have a Gryphon Diablo 300 with a Chord Dave and prefer the Dave without the m-scaler.  To my ears the sound was very smooth, but I missed the dynamics as well.  Similar to your experience.    I’m sure many out there will love the relaxed presentation, though.