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DAC 3-4k range

Time to start looking for an upgrade. Will look to buy used in the 3-4k price range.

Currently using an Audio Note kits 2.1, and like it very much in all ways. One perspective I have is to just get "more of it" and upgrade in the AN line, if in fact higher level models improve on the basic characteristics.

But I don't have a lot of experience with DACs into this new price territory, so I'm interested in hearing what other folks like so I can do some more research.

My primary requirement is balanced outputs.

It will be driven by a Logitech Transporter and feed an Ayre AX-7e.
joncourage
sandstone
358 posts
 
I'm enjoying great audio with the Ayre QB-9 into an AX-7e running balanced with Cardas Clear cabling. But of course that's with USB in asynchronous mode, not compatible with your logitech transporter. It's rumored that the next Ayre DAC may support S/PDIF or AES/EBU input as an additional option.

Barring those, I recently heard a system with Antelope Zodiac Gold running in balanced mode that was also incredible, IMO. Good luck in your auditioning.

gopher
499 posts
 
It would be a mistake to leave Lampizator out of your considerations. I'm listening to a level 3 with lampizator transport now and it is very good digital.
cdente
111 posts
 
Audio Horizons Tube DAC 3.1.
soix
8,695 posts
 
Lots of great DACs listed already to which I'll add the Bel Canto 3.5VB. Had a previous version in my system a while back and it was fantastic. Neutral and natural sounding.
abruce's avatar
abruce
245 posts
 
Gopher
Can you give us some detail on the Lamp,how does it compare to the EE.

Thanks
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