To DDC or not to DDC. That is the question.

There are a lot of variables and the only way to find out how it will play out in your system is to try for yourself. Some of these DDC units are excellent for a pretty reasonable price, so there's low risk involved. Either buy from someplace with a good return policy or else pick up a second hand unit, and flip it if you don't end up hearing an improvement.

I like the Denafrips units and their Musician Audio counterparts, all very well built, great connectivity, and of course superb sound. 

I checked out the Merason upgrade to Mk2 and Im not sure if I want to lose the musical analog quality that the Mk1 is known for. If only someone in my area had a Mk2 I could listen to in my system. At $2400 for the upgrade I'm leaning towards testing out a DDC in the $1200 range that I can flip if I decide its not an improvement... or I could buy a bunch of records.... the dilemma of having a monthly audio stipend!! 

Worth watching….
 

https://youtu.be/wiU_15NpUn4?si=gaKwY3JsXG0m15It

I owned the Merason Reuss and an Innuos Zenith Mk3 and used USB and also tried a Singxer SU6. The sound is different between the two, but probably a toss up. I don’t think that we can have this discussion without knowing what you are using as a server to feed the DAC, this can have a significant effect on the quality of sound you get from your digital chain.