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2k DAC that gives me what I want like my vintage LP12

I have zero experience in rotating DACs through my system.  My Analog chain gives me exactly what I want as a listener.  It is based on a vintage LP12 with a few upgrades to power supply, tonearm, cartridge, phono stage, and setup.  Detailed, warm, deep silent background, and effortless delivery.  

I have an Eversolo A6 and an S.M.S.L CD transport.  I decided to purchase a Toppings D70 Pro Octo to feed my streamer and transport into.  I was not really disappointed, but certainly not what I was looking for.  I want the same or similar level of satisfaction that I feel when I listen to my Analog chain.  I also want to stay at or under $2k..  I realize that the dollars in my turntable, arm, cartridge, and phono stage is more than twice that amount, but I was able to assemble it over time. 

I want to start with the DAC.  I can change Streamer, Server, CD Transport over time if need be.  I assume that a good DAC should be able to clock other digital inputs to mitigate many of their shortcomings.

maam522a
maam522a OP
161 posts
 

@lanx0003 

Can you explain why the source components have influence on the chain.  If a DAC is reclocking the data stream and there are no errors being transmitted, how could a streamer feeding the DAC influence the sound coming out of the DAC?

mattmiller's avatar
mattmiller
1,620 posts
 

Well Until you hear it, then you will realize how awesome Digital has become over the years, the Music streamer is like having a great dedicated CD transport. I use a Outboard DAC with a Aurender X100L music server, it connects with a USB audio cable, this is very important because this is the unit you interact with directly and this company has one of the best Apps (conductor) for interfacing with your music. Did I say how Incredible the sound is coming from this music server?? . The sound using Tidal with MAX resolution is dynamic, detailed, with tons of PRAT (pace rhythm timing), there are live instruments in my room! I love the digital sound in my system Funny thing is, I am really a vinyl guy, I have a JA Michell Gyro SE turntable with a Dynavector 20x2 mc cartridge and a Manley Chinook phono pre. And while my vinyl sound leaves me nothing to be desired, my digital sound is better. 

 

A GREAT DAC to try If it were me would be a MYTEK Brooklyn DAC, the DAC is also key in the digital chain, they all sound different too.  

 

Matt M

westcoastaudiophile
819 posts
 

"2k DAC that gives me what I want like my vintage LP12"

not sure if it’s possible! analog sound gives me a feel of jazz/blues/rock band performing up front of me, while nice dac and digital media track gives clean, sterile (lifeless) sound..

maam522a OP
161 posts
 

@mattmiller 

The reason I started the discussion is because I respect the opinions of those that have already gone down this road.  The mid tier gear that I have shows me how far I am from my goals.  With the insight of others, I hope to stay out of an endless rabbit hole.  It appears that there are some great DACs than can get me into zone for around the $2k range.  I stream High Res today but there is no magic to be found.  I do use USB today as well.  

Form the reviews I have read, something along the lines of the Pontus 12 or 15 might fit in.

maam522a OP
161 posts
 

@westcoastaudiophile 

I am not sure if it is possible either - thus the conversation.

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