If you go with the Esoteric streamer/dac the top of their line is the N-01XD. The older version is the N-01 they are built around different DAC's. The N01 uses an AKM 4497 chip which is a few years old AKM 's newest chip is the 4499. The N01XD uses what looks like a proprietary FPGA Esoteric developed, their Master Sound Discrete DAC. I have no idea which would sound better or the prices I happened to notice the recently came out with this new piece might get a deal on the N-01.
Higher End DACs
I am looking for a DAC (potentially streamer&DAC) to be paired in a mcintosh system (c1100/611). Its my first foray into digital streaming and I have no need for a CD player.
I see a lot of love for Esoteric, however, most seems to be around their transports? Are they not as renowned for pure digital streaming and/or standalone DACs? I see DCS (for instance) often referenced for standalone DACs - how does Esoteric compare?
I see a lot of love for Esoteric, however, most seems to be around their transports? Are they not as renowned for pure digital streaming and/or standalone DACs? I see DCS (for instance) often referenced for standalone DACs - how does Esoteric compare?
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- 500 posts total
Cal3713 thanks for the info I have been wondering about the Matrix ElementX as it is a one piece streamer/ dac. I use a benchmark dac3 now which some consider very neutral and not very engaging, they both use ESS chips, which is what I look for I like the dac to not add anything, flat, neutral, no noise, great measurements sounds good to me. |
Been shopping for a DAC/Streamer. Listened to Lindemann and was blown away. Worth a look at. https://lindemann-audio.de/products/limetree-series/network/?lang=en |
- 500 posts total