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The big DAC decision

One of the challenges of building an audio system is trying to make sure that all of the individual components of that system have equivalent and compatible technical specifications. For example, it doesn’t make sense to purchase speakers that are capable of producing sound in the 5Hz to 20kHz range if your amp is only capable of sending audio signals in the 30Hz to 15kHz range to these speakers. Unless, of course, you hope to upgrade your audio system such that it can properly drive these speakers someday.

In my desire to build an audio system that has the proper balance of individual component capabilities I’ve found myself struggling over the choice of a DAC. Basic technical specifications aren’t necessarily applicable here. The foundation of my system is a Woo Audio WA-33 headphone amp and Focal Utopia headphones. My music files consist of standard CD 16bit/44kHz resolution to Hi-Res DSD files. What I’m struggling with is choosing a DAC that would allow me to get the most out of this amp and headphone pairing. From the research I’ve done so far it is clear that the $23k Meridian Audio Ultra DAC would bring out the best of any system it is connected to. But does it make sense to purchase a DAC of this quality (and price) for my humble headphone system? Or would it be more appropriate to get the Chord DAVE (setting the MQA format compatibility issue aside for this discussion)? I’m currently using an Oppo 105D as my DAC and the music sounds pretty decent, but I know my system can sound better.

So I was hoping to get some input from fellow audio enthusiasts out there to make what may be the most important decision of my system build. I’m also looking at getting a PS Audio DirectStream Power Plant 12 to power this system. Anyone out there have any suggestions or thoughts on this issue?


slvrsrfr
slvrsrfr OP
12 posts
 
I discovered the Meridian while doing a generic search for audiophile DACs.  The specs and reviews are very impressive, but I can’t say I ever seriously considered it for my system.

And you’re right dubulup, the Chord DAVE has extraneous features given my current setup.  From what I’ve read, however, it apparently provides an excellent quality analog signal, which is what I and everyone else is hoping to get out of their DAC.  This really gets to why I’m here looking for input from all of you.  Is there a DAC out there that can provide an analog signal on par with the DAVE without the additional built in amp baggage?
audioengr
3,282 posts
 

Some of the best DAC's to consider in this price-range are:

1) DaVinci 2

2) Aqua HIFI LaScala MkII

3) Resonnessence Invicta Mirius Pro

4) TotalDAC

czarivey
4,494 posts
 
so you wanna bigger one?
slvrsrfr OP
12 posts
 
Thanks audioengr, I wasn’t aware of these DACs.  

Czarivey, I’m just looking for a high quality DAC that will provide me with a lifetime of listening enjoyment.  I don’t want to look back five years from now wishing I had spent a few dollars more now.
czarivey
4,494 posts
 
DACs had all been developed long time ago. Wheather you pick up today's or prior technology, you won't miss. EAD DSP7000 MK2 is still my favorite. Some vintage 1-bit DLC ones can also kick S of bigger DACs.
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