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Help me choose a new DAC/Streamer

Fellow Audiophiles,

I’m planning on replacing my Cary Audio DMS-500 with a new modern streamer. Truth to be told nothing is wrong with my 9 yr old unit.

To give you an overview of my current set up, DMS-500 > AR LS25 mk2 > Pass X600.8 > B&W 800D2 speakers.

Below are streamer brands I’m considering, “ most of my listening is streamed through Qobuz, Tidal , Spotify" I do not use Roon, prefer to use Tidal , Qobuz cast capabilities. 

Mcintosh DS200 fairly new developed model.

Ayon S-10 Mk2 signature.

Ayon S-10 Mk2 XS

Cary DMS-700 is another consideration, from what I’ve heard it’s vastly improved over the dms-500 however prefer to try a something new.

If you owned any of the above, have first hand experience , would you please share what your likes and dislikes are.

oneofew
rick_n's avatar
rick_n
477 posts
 

Streaming is still progressing fast and furiously.  It keeps sounding better and better.  I would recommend a streamer brand that only develops and sells streamers. That is where I put my money.  You should audition the unit before you purchase.  I can't explain why but they really do all sound different.  Also, make sure that the streamer has the output connections that you need as they vary.   Good luck. 

soix
11,233 posts
 

It’s really more about what improvements/sound characteristics you are looking for.   Also, what’s your budget, are you looking for new or used, and are you open to separates?

oneofew OP
5 posts
 

@rick_n. Appreciate your suggetion . do you have experiance with brands that do digital only ? Personally I tried HIfi rose, analog output gain is extremely hot for my preamp. I also have a bluesound node, sonically it's no match or even close to my decade old DMS-500. 

@soix. I'm looking for new, my budget is no more than $6K , prefer all in one (streamer). To be honest, I still enjoy tonality of my DMS-500, but it's really challenging to navigate through the streaming services.

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