DAC UPGRADE


I currently have a Weiss Dac 204 with a Modwright linear power supply.  I have found that upgrading the DAC brings out music that I didn't know was on the recording. The 2 contenders are the Meitner MA3i and the Berkely Alpha Dac Series 3. I am leaning toward the Meitner MA3i as it comes with a network card to allow for streaming.  I have partly asked this question before in a prior request, but my  revised question is  the difference in performance between the current and upgrade "substantial" enough to justify the upgrade.  The difference in price between the two DACS is about $8500.00.  I'd be willing to make the move if the difference in  sound quality is substantial. I realize in this hobby there is the law of diminishing returns as you upgrade. I will endeavor to compare the new proposed DAC with my current dac, if possible. I know I am asking a question about value which is subjective to a great extent. Would appreciate any opinions regarding my question.

 

kjl1065

@yyzsantabarbara yes. And my MA3i took over 200hrs to settle. It kept improving but 200hr mark is where you get a proper feel for it. 
 

@kjl1065 you’re unlikely to get many responses from the actual owners of Berkeley or Meitner who went to these DACs from your Weiss.
The only way you will know is to hear these DACs in your system. When you’re making this kind of purchase a dealer should allow a home audition and should possibly even set this up for you in your home. Each DAC should be auditioned without swapping another unit in/out for at least 2 days with several hours of listening to allow the DAC and yourself time to begin appreciating its qualities. This shouldn’t be rushed. 

I would pause for a moment.  I am a dealer for Weiss and Meitner and although not a Berkeley dealer, I have had their products in on trade.  

Weiss 204 to Meither MA3i give me pause as these are radically different sound profiles.  The Meitner is smoother, more musical and much less bright.  Superficially this sounds appealing, but if your system is tuned and optimized for the Weiss, switching to the Meitner is going to materially alter the tonality of your system which will become much more laid back.  If this is the desired outcome, great!  If not, you can end up playing whack a mole as you changed your dad now what else will you need to change to get sound back to where you like it.   

Alternatively, if you ant to maintain the current tonal balance of your system I would look at a 501/502 from Weiss which has an on-board renderer.  I know it is a bit more than the Meitner but will maintain your current sonic balance and might be. better choice.  

The Berkley tonally is probably a better choice than the Meitner.  You could also look at a Chord TT2/MScaler combo.  

The Berkley tonally is probably a better choice than the Meitner.
 

@verdantaudio from what perspective?