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Streamer with R2R DAC

I am engaged in a serious downsizing effort. I have begun to enjoy streaming (Qobuz, Idagio, etc) with a NAD M10.  Very nice (all in one), but I really prefer R2R ladder dacs.

So, are there any streamers with a R2R dac?  This would not be an all in one unit, I would add an amp or active speakers.  I have recently heard about the new Cary unit but too expensive.  Under $5K, new or used please.

Larry

clio
jjss49's avatar
jjss49
6,920 posts
 
Not sure why people want to go with the older technology R2R vs DAC ess9038 chipsets.

because it often sounds better, a bit more like real music...
mlsstl
1,579 posts
 
Delta-sigma DACs, while they can have very impressive technical specs, still give an approximation of the original signal. In medical and scientific fields, delta-sigma DACs aren't used because they give "approximate" results. Even if the approximation is close, that still isn't good enough.  

The drawback of R2R (AKA multibit) DACs is cost -- they are more expensive to make, which make the delta-sigma DACs very attractive for consumer products. 

Another variable factor in design for both types of DACs are the filters used. Delta-sigma DACs generate a lot more high frequency noise that needs to be filtered out. While the end result for a DS DAC can be very, very quiet, it took a very aggressive filter to accomplish that.  

Finally, as with any audio electronic component, there are the issues of power supply and analog amplification states. These can be better or worse. All of these factors combine to give a DAC it's "sound" so you will still need to listen to the options available to you in your price range and make your own decision. (Full disclosure, I have used several DACs and my preference is my Schiit Bifrost.)
georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
10,312 posts
 
+1 and some, on what  mlsstl said about R2R vs DS.

Cheers George
clio OP
13 posts
 
        "+1 and some, on what  mlsstl said about R2R vs DS."

@George:  can you suggest some small footprint R2R examples, please?  Cost not too important.

Thanks, Larry
georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
10,312 posts
 
clio OP
@George: can you suggest some small footprint R2R examples, please?

Soekris from Denmark, high accuracy discrete R2R with volume control, very good from what I’m hearing and from where/who it counts.
My favourites the Dac1421 and Dac1541, and I think now that’s been replaced by the Dac2541, don’t know if it’s better or just more extras. And he has DIY also.
This guy really knows his ****.

http://www.soekris.dk/

Cheers George
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