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Thinking of buying a new DAC - Shiit Yggdrasil?

Looking for some advice regarding a new DAC.  Currently, I have a Gustard x20u with all of the Rick Schultz upgrades.  I like it, it's a very nice sound.  I recently upgraded to Acoustic Zen cables throughout--nice improvement.  I also have a Primaluna Dialogue HP Integrated amp (only RCA connectors).  I have the urge to upgrade the DAC as I'm now feeling it's the weakest link in my system.  My budget is around $2500.  I was leaning toward buying the Holo Audio Spring KTE, but that's a bit over my budget.  I've read a lot about the Shiit Yggdrasil Analogue 2 and am leaning that way.  There are also a few used for sale here on Audiogon.  :)     My question to the forum is, do you think the Yggdrasil would be a significant upgrade in sound quality?

Thank you for your help with this decision!!!

My system:
Bryston BDP-1 (used with Roon from my desktop computer)
miniDSP SHD (for Dirac room correction)
Gustard x20u with EVS mods
Oppo 105 with EVS mods
Primaluna Dialogue HP Integrated Amp
Kimber Kabel D60 BNC
Acoustic Zen Absolute 75 coax
Acoustic Zen Matrix II interconnect
Acoustic Zen Hologram II Speaker Cables
Furman Elite 20 PFi power conditioner
100% Pangea Power Cords
smills59
toneranger58
124 posts
 
Love my Yggdrasil, Considerably outperforms my Node 2i DAC. My system is very resolving, SIm 700i and Sopra 2, so that may make a difference. You get a return period on the Yggdrasil so you can give it a try. I have learned these DAC’s are so system dependent. I wouldn’t sell my Yggdrasil, it has put digital in a new light for me.
bstatmeister
530 posts
 
You might look at Denafrips, as well. Still not sure if the Ares beats the Yggy (don't know if anyone has compared them head-to-head), but apparently the Denafrips Terminator wipes the floor with it (but it's also $2000 more)
toneranger58
124 posts
 
As you see you will get strong opinions that really won’t be much help. You just have to try as many as possible and see what works best in your system. I prefer the r2r ladder DAC’s with my system. Many don’t with their systems. Good luck on your search.
smills59 OP
54 posts
 
I thought I would, and I appreciate the options given.  I did look at the Terminator, but way out of my price range and used ones just don't appear often.  Wondering if anyone has tried both the Gustard x20u and the Yggy.  Or anyone have an opinion of the Gustard x20 alone?

Thanks, everyone!  This is a great place to get expert, experienced advice.
mapman's avatar
mapman
21,838 posts
 
I see Schitt has their first turntable coming out that looks very nice.  A lot of old Micro Seiki like design features for <$1000.  
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