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Best DAC under $2K

I am transfering my cd colection to an external 500 GB hard drive using the I-tunes program (WAV files). Need an DAC to connect to my main system (Linn Ikemi, Kudos, Kairn-Pro, Klouts & Keltiks). Since my computer has a digital coaxial output I am not limited to an USB DAC, but will consider using an USB one. I am looking at the Bel Canto DAC2. Any other DAC in this price range? Any help will be very much appreciated.
hepl
gmood1
1,251 posts
 
Hi Hat,
I may consider the 1000/50v mod in the near future myself.I think their $50 a pop if I'm not mistaken. Those V-Caps would be killer but the price is a little steep on those around $500?.. I believe.So I understand you taking one step at a time.:-)

My soundstage is just the opposite ..more upfront. Basically on stage..LOL.
I whole heartily agree with you about Peter. He's more concerned with getting the best sound than filling his wallet..that for sure!

Good listening!
c123666
871 posts
 
A brand new Audio Note DAC 1x Signature Mk II is 1995; non signature model is 1495

I have the siggie with a pair of siemens ecc803s tubes; sounds great

cal audio alpha at 450 to 550 is also a great DAC with rca, toslink, and xlr digital inputs...uses a pair of 12ax7 tubes
jayboard
301 posts
 
I've had the Northstar 192 for a number of months. I bought it based only on my reading--I did not listen to any other DACs--so I can't give you an informed opinion. I just decided to live with it for an extended period and see what I thought.

I do like it. As sources, I've used: iTunes/Airport Express (optical connection), Linn Karik, Quad 99 CDP (optical connection), Tascam CD-RW 700 (CD recorder). It beats all of them (not that this was a exactly a revelation in some cases). I like the old Karik (no Numerik) better as a player in my system than the newer Quad, and using the Northstar provided better resolution and deeper bass than the Karik. What surprised me as much as anything was that it didn't matter which machine I used as a transport. The Karik feels much more substantial in use than the others, and I always assumed it would be a superior transport, but I couldn't reliably tell a difference in sound when I used it. FWIW.

Is using your Ikemi an option?
glai's avatar
glai
446 posts
 
audio logic 24mxl. Way better than trivista 21 in my system
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
The Benchmark DAC-1 in it latest version is hard to beat. Comparables are: Stello and Northstar. The Northstar has I2S input which can be a great advantage if you plan to use a USB to I2S converter later with your computer. I do not make any of these, but I do mod them.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
Manufacturer/modder
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