A DAC that can make digital sound analog?


Hi All,

I have a ModWright Oppo 105D. It’s excellent....but it sure don’t sound like vinyl or tape.

What DACs have you heard that really work like magic on digital audio files? 

I am interested in DACs that kill that digital glare/blare, that gives you that sense of ‘blackness’ or ‘darkness’ to the audio soundscape, really letting you hear into the mix...ya know that layering, space and depth that is very evident on tape.

Very curious to hear your thoughts.

Thanks!
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Showing 2 responses by 2psyop

All DAC’s convert a digital signal to analog. That’s how we hear it. But I understand the question. Also, we are led to believe ALL analog sources sound great. I mean does everyone own a Well Tempered or VPI turntable and great phono preamp? Does everyone have a great cartridge and tonearm? Just as there exists WIDE differences in the quality of sound coming from a DACs it is also the same for analog devices. 
n80
”The Heart wants what it wants - or else it does not care”

Emily Dickinson

Yes he hit the nail on the head. We hear what we want to hear. There are as many different signature sounds coming from different DAC designed chips, different DAC configurations, budget and older ones. Transports and AC supply can introduce noise and change the sound. Different manufacturers with philosophies and implementation which have altered approaches. Having said all that, we all like what WE ourselves like.
Same with speakers, turntables, amps and preamps.
Someone told me once that the pops and clicks on most albums can be eliminated, since quite often that sound does not come from scratches, but dirt and debris deep in the grooves of the album. A good deep cleaning can really clear that noise out, but how many analog audiophiles have the tools and take the time to do that? Perhaps some audiophiles like the sound of those pops and clicks on albums  for nostalgic, sentimental or other reasons. We like what we like...