A new dac?

@deep_333 "DDC Equivalent" function should be done right before the dac conversion with the shortest signal path inside the same box.

I want to expand on what @goodlistening64 mentioned about DDCs. I believe the main reason comes down to cost. If the Wiim Ultra included full DDC functionality with high-quality clocks, it wouldn’t be selling for $329—or even less during the $263 promotions. When paired with a $70 SMSL PO100 Pro DDC, the sound improves noticeably (around 10–15% if I had to assign a percentage). When paired with the Gustard U18, which uses very good clocks (Accusilicon oscillators) and the K2 synthesizer (whatever that actually does), the improvement is dramatic. But at that point, you’re looking at an $830 combo, and I’d personally rather put that money toward a Halo Red or add a few hundred more for a Node ICON or Rivo Plus. Whether the upgrade is warranted really depends on your own ears.

If you try these options and don’t find the upgrade worthwhile, that’s great news—you won’t need to continue chasing improvements or spending more money. Save it for world travel or something else meaningful in your life.  This hobby should not become a rabbit hole for anyone to chase.

I’ve still got a Denafrips Pontus ll, I really like the sound and I’m thinking of moving up a notch or two in their line.

All the best.

The sound difference between R2R and Delta-Sigma DACs is a complex topic with no definitive answer, as it is influenced by various factors, including design and implementation [[1]](https://theaudiostandard.net/thread/7359/based-digital-noise-related-question). Here's a breakdown of the key differences and general sound characteristics associated with each type: 

 **1. Core Technology** 

 *   **R2R DAC:**
 *   Utilizes a resistor ladder network with precise resistors (R and 2R values) to directly convert digital signals into analog voltages [[2]](https://grooveaudio.com/blogs/r2r-vs-delta-sigma-dac-two-paths-to-digital-music-reproduction/r2r-vs-delta-sigma-dac-two-paths-to-digital-music-reproduction).
 *   Each bit directly contributes to the final output voltage, offering a discrete, linear conversion method [[2]](https://grooveaudio.com/blogs/r2r-vs-delta-sigma-dac-two-paths-to-digital-music-reproduction/r2r-vs-delta-sigma-dac-two-paths-to-digital-music-reproduction).
 *   Often operates in a fully analog manner with minimal digital processing [[2]](https://grooveaudio.com/blogs/r2r-vs-delta-sigma-dac-two-paths-to-digital-music-reproduction/r2r-vs-delta-sigma-dac-two-paths-to-digital-music-reproduction). 
 *   **Delta-Sigma DAC:**
 *   Employs oversampling and noise shaping techniques to convert digital audio to analog [[2]](https://grooveaudio.com/blogs/r2r-vs-delta-sigma-dac-two-paths-to-digital-music-reproduction/r2r-vs-delta-sigma-dac-two-paths-to-digital-music-reproduction).
 *   The digital signal is modulated to a very high sample rate (often in the MHz range) and then filtered to recover the analog waveform [[2]](https://grooveaudio.com/blogs/r2r-vs-delta-sigma-dac-two-paths-to-digital-music-reproduction/r2r-vs-delta-sigma-dac-two-paths-to-digital-music-reproduction).
 *   Relies on feedback loops to correct errors in real time [[3]](https://sw1xad.co.uk/technology_post/delta-sigma-vs-non-oversampling-r2r-dac-designs/). 

 **2. General Sound Characteristics** 

 *   **R2R DAC:**
 *   Often described as having a more "analog-like" and "natural" sound [[2]](https://grooveaudio.com/blogs/r2r-vs-delta-sigma-dac-two-paths-to-digital-music-reproduction/r2r-vs-delta-sigma-dac-two-paths-to-digital-music-reproduction). 
 *   May be preferred by audiophiles for their transparency and ability to preserve the integrity of the original signal [[4]](https://www.magnahifi.com/discrete-r2r-dac-vs-sigma-delta-dac).
 *   Some common descriptors include: full-bodied, textured, smooth, organic, and musical [[4]](https://www.magnahifi.com/discrete-r2r-dac-vs-sigma-delta-dac)[[5]](https://www.fiio.com/newsinfo/1099293.html).
 *   May offer a bigger and deeper soundstage with good imaging [[1]](https://theaudiostandard.net/thread/7359/based-digital-noise-related-question)[[6]](https://www.stereonet.com/forums/topic/67627-r2r-vs-delta-sigma-dacs/).
 *   **Delta-Sigma DAC:**
 *   Often characterized by accuracy, detail, and technical performance with modern precision [[2]](https://grooveaudio.com/blogs/r2r-vs-delta-sigma-dac-two-paths-to-digital-music-reproduction/r2r-vs-delta-sigma-dac-two-paths-to-digital-music-reproduction).
 *   Some audiophiles find their sound less natural or warm compared to R2R DACs [[4]](https://www.magnahifi.com/discrete-r2r-dac-vs-sigma-delta-dac).
 *   In the past, some have been described as "flat-sounding," with an accentuated treble and poor low-frequency response, though this may not be the case with modern, well-implemented designs [[6]](https://www.stereonet.com/forums/topic/67627-r2r-vs-delta-sigma-dacs/). 

 **3. Technical Differences and Implications** 

 *   **Linearity:** R2R DACs are known for excellent linearity due to their simple architecture, which helps them accurately reproduce the input signal without significant distortion [[4]](https://www.magnahifi.com/discrete-r2r-dac-vs-sigma-delta-dac). Delta-Sigma DACs, while achieving high resolution, are inherently non-linear due to the complex algorithms and feedback loops used [[4]](https://www.magnahifi.com/discrete-r2r-dac-vs-sigma-delta-dac). 
 *   **Oversampling:** R2R DACs are inherently fast and generally don't require extensive oversampling [[4]](https://www.magnahifi.com/discrete-r2r-dac-vs-sigma-delta-dac). Delta-Sigma DACs often use oversampling techniques to achieve high resolution, which can introduce latency [[4]](https://www.magnahifi.com/discrete-r2r-dac-vs-sigma-delta-dac). 
 *   **Noise and Distortion:** Delta-Sigma DACs use noise shaping to push quantization noise outside the audible range [[3]](https://sw1xad.co.uk/technology_post/delta-sigma-vs-non-oversampling-r2r-dac-designs/)[[7]](https://www.reddit.com/r/headphones/comments/89m4nu/academic_explanation_of_delta_sigma_and_r2r_dacs/). R2R DACs, especially Non-Oversampling (NOS) designs, minimize digital filtering, which some believe can distort the musical signal [[3]](https://sw1xad.co.uk/technology_post/delta-sigma-vs-non-oversampling-r2r-dac-designs/). 

 **4. Subjectivity and Implementation** 

 *   Sound quality is subjective and depends on individual preferences and equipment [[2]](https://grooveaudio.com/blogs/r2r-vs-delta-sigma-dac-two-paths-to-digital-music-reproduction/r2r-vs-delta-sigma-dac-two-paths-to-digital-music-reproduction).
 *   High-end examples from both R2R and Delta-Sigma camps can sound excellent [[2]](https://grooveaudio.com/blogs/r2r-vs-delta-sigma-dac-two-paths-to-digital-music-reproduction/r2r-vs-delta-sigma-dac-two-paths-to-digital-music-reproduction).
 *   Implementation plays a crucial role; both types benefit from reducing noise [[1]](https://theaudiostandard.net/thread/7359/based-digital-noise-related-question).
 *   Some argue that the differences between well-implemented Delta-Sigma and R2R DACs are minimal, and that other factors like the quality of components and power supplies can have a greater impact [[1]](https://theaudiostandard.net/thread/7359/based-digital-noise-related-question). 

 **5. R2R Variations** 

 *   Non-oversampling (NOS) R2R DACs are considered by some to sound more natural than Delta-Sigma DACs because they avoid digital filtering or manipulation of the signal [[3]](https://sw1xad.co.uk/technology_post/delta-sigma-vs-non-oversampling-r2r-dac-designs/).
 *   However, R2R designs with oversampling may not be significantly better than Delta-Sigma designs due to the digital filtering involved [[3]](https://sw1xad.co.uk/technology_post/delta-sigma-vs-non-oversampling-r2r-dac-designs/). 

 In conclusion, while R2R DACs are often associated with a more "analog" and "musical" sound, and Delta-Sigma DACs with accuracy and detail, the actual sound difference can be subtle and is highly dependent on the specific design and implementation of each DAC [[1]](https://theaudiostandard.net/thread/7359/based-digital-noise-related-question)[[2]](https://grooveaudio.com/blogs/r2r-vs-delta-sigma-dac-two-paths-to-digital-music-reproduction/r2r-vs-delta-sigma-dac-two-paths-to-digital-music-reproduction).

---
Learn more:
1. [R2R vs Chip based DAC - Digital noise related question | The Audio Standard](https://theaudiostandard.net/thread/7359/based-digital-noise-related-question)
2. [R2R vs Delta-Sigma DAC — Two Paths to Digital Music Reproduction - Groove Audio](https://grooveaudio.com/blogs/r2r-vs-delta-sigma-dac-two-paths-to-digital-music-reproduction/r2r-vs-delta-sigma-dac-two-paths-to-digital-music-reproduction)
3. [Delta Sigma vs Non-oversampling (NOS) R2R DAC - Ultimate Guide - SW1X Audio Design](https://sw1xad.co.uk/technology_post/delta-sigma-vs-non-oversampling-r2r-dac-designs/)
4. [Discrete R2R vs. Sigma Delta DAC - Magna Hifi](https://www.magnahifi.com/discrete-r2r-dac-vs-sigma-delta-dac)
5. [Go for a Bolder Flavor, FIIO R2R DAC + Tube Buffer WARMER R2R](https://www.fiio.com/newsinfo/1099293.html)
6. [R2R vs. Delta Sigma DACs - Digital Sources, DACs, and Computer Audio - StereoNET](https://www.stereonet.com/forums/topic/67627-r2r-vs-delta-sigma-dacs/)
7. [Academic explanation of Delta Sigma and R2R DACs : r/headphones - Reddit](https://www.reddit.com/r/headphones/comments/89m4nu/academic_explanation_of_delta_sigma_and_r2r_dacs/)“

Thanks everyone for taking them time to respond with all your suggestions.

I'm going to waffle again and most likely keep my Mytek for now and try a few of the less expensive dacs for comparison that I can return, or keep if worth it.

I will however be buying a streamer and getting a Qobuz subscription.

Now, to figure out which one!😃

Good idea to try lower cost options to compare  first and return if needed.  
 

DAC technology has matured to the point where it’s almost a commodity item.  There are differences among them but shame on any company that manages to offer a bad one these days.  I have yet to stumble across a bad one these days. The further you go back, the more mediocre ones around when compared to today. 
 

Dare I say it’s a golden age for DACs these days.