End Game Dac reccomendations

@jmrrobbie1 

If I was doing over again - would go with the Wadax studio player...it is one tenth the cost of their Reference, yet has the same DAC. A one box set up = DAC, streamer, CD/SACD disc transport, and volume control. When considering the cost of good DAC, streamer, transport, interconnects - the pricepoint is a good deal.

Excellent suggestion. You are right, that does look like a good deal, once someone does the math on how much their pre-amp, streamer, cables, and possible optical bridge or other peripherals, and footers/platforms for each add into the cost. The stumbling block is believing a one-box solution could possibly sound as good as all those separate pieces, but there is only one way to find out. I do know my DAC’s analog volume control bests my ~$6000 pre, and I have read others with the MPD-8 stated the same with much more expensive pre-amps than mine. 

I tend to agree with John Darko’s system hierarchy, which starts with room, then loudspeaker, sub integration, listening position, amp, and finally DAC, in descending order of importance for a system.  DACs are so good these days, and they make the least difference in your system.  I wouldn’t change your DAC without hearing the alternative, if you’re thinking of spending anything over a couple thousand bucks.  

The Lampizator horizon is going to make the vocals so realistic especially if you like acoustical music, but may weigh the highs down at the expense of midrange  If you like speed and superior bass control then the emm labs dac is the way to go.  The only concern is it is highly resolving as are the focals.  This could be a problem depending on room acoustics.  The safest bet - especially if you cant get around to evaluate is the Playback MPD-8.  It is very natural sounding and isnt too much of anything.  I have an Emm DV2I for one system and a Playback MPD-6 for another system.  My playback is on a Dartzeel integrated with Kharma speakers which also have berrylium tweeters and it sounds fantastic.

@greenngoldcheesehead 

I have an Emm DV2I for one system and a Playback MPD-6 for another system.  My playback is on a Dartzeel integrated with Kharma speakers which also have beryllium tweeters and it sounds fantastic.

Does the balance become a little too bright with the DV2I in your Kharma system? 

@mclinnguy , I do not know.  The systems are 1500 miles from one another so I haven't tried the dv2i with the kharma yet.  I suspect it may be but we'll see.