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Best used DAC 500 or less, need help

OK, I want to get a DAC. I really know next-to-nothing about 'em, but I think I need one. I would love to buy the Wadia that I heard at Music Lovers, but my gardeners income precludes that. My comfort zone is $500 or less. What does your experience tell? Thank You, Martin
truthrider
tpsonic
1,092 posts
 
Hello, You might try an Adcom 700,MSB PS-1{Mark Brassfield, a single-ended Timbre DAC or a used Birdland{$1000 new}.Happy hunting and don't skimp on the digital cable {Mapleshade,Silent Source}.
phild
603 posts
 
A used EVS Millenium DAC would be in that range (if you can find one).
mejames
986 posts
 
Enlightened Audio designs 7000 Mark III is very musical you won't do better for $500
pops
2,272 posts
 
Check out a Meridian 263 or 563. You can get the first for well under 500 - just as important is the cable. Illuminati D60 is excellent and used by many but there are other good ones to...
ehider
286 posts
 
How about a DAC that sounds just as good as the Wadia? Believe it or not, a Stan Warren modified MSB will do just that! Currently there are over a dozen audiophiles in the US using Stan Warren digital front ends in $30k+ systems. These guys (and myself) could spend much more on digital, but we've found it very hard to get better sound than Stan Warren's modified gear. I think that many audiophiles don't take his work seriously becuase its so damn inexpensive.
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