DAC suggestions for a reasonably modest system
I have two systems currently fed by a SMSL SU-9n via Y splitter. It's time to add a new/used DAC and get rid of the Y splitter. New DAC will feed a VTL TL-2.5 + VTL Stereo 90 or a couple of different vintage SS amps (Sony TAN-8250 or Luxman 5M21), and just for fun, maybe a couple of Dyna Mk VI, running Magnepan 3.6R. The SMSL does a great job overall, but seems to be a better fit with the ARC SP3a1 + SET or SEP amp into Altecs. For those of you that have had the SMSL or similar level DACs in a similar system to mine and have moved up the chain, what gave you a nice step change? The Maggies, however imperfect, are delightfully revealing and prior DAC changes were definitely more apparent with them. Budget is $1000-1500, and I have no issue with buying used good quality stuff. None of my system is less than 20 years old except the DACs.
This would be great and save you some $$$… Here’s a good review that I agree with, and yes I own it. Add a DDC like the Musician Pisces or Denafrips Iris and use the i2S connection and you’ll get a significant performance boost. https://soundnews.net/sources/dacs/musician-audio-pegasus-r2r-dac-review/ Best of luck. |
Come up with $1900 ,without question the Denafrips Pontus 2 12th anniversary it is a excellent dac and I don’t own but did ,I bought their terminator 2 , for a great price ,No dac especially a R2R dac is this musical for under $2k I have heard many I think it is the best dac under $3k,it’s that good just read a bunch of reviews. It also has U.S service centers if need be .I have owned 4,of them ,my wife still has a older pontus 2 and never an issue. |
