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Recommendation for DAC needed.

I’m looking to replace my Schiit Gumby DAC.  Price range: $2000-3000.
Right now considering Ayre Codex.
Need it for my CD transport as a well as compacity for hi res streaming.
 I don’t need headphone capability.
Any high quality unit recommendations would be appreciated.
128x128rvpiano
twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
1,457 posts
 
@rvpiano  I recommend you read around a bit more.  There are a LOT of DACs out there in your price range.  My conclusion is that there are at least three categories of sonic presentation: strictly neutral, slightly warm and forgiving, and warmer still.  Benchmark definitely falls in #1, though the '3 model is less ruthless than the '1 and '2.  If it were me, I'd be inclined to find a PS Audio DirectStream Jr (category #2) discounted by 1K.  The Snowmass downloadable upgrade is supposed to be very good indeed.
djones51
617 posts
 
The benchmark DAC 3 B is on my short list but I could use some strictly neutral so it's good to know that about it. 
twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
1,457 posts
 

For instance, take a look at this current discussion.

https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/which-dac-benchmark-mytek-audio-mirror-holo-audio-mojo-audio

rvpiano's avatar
rvpiano OP
938 posts
 


Reading the above, I’m now considering an  Auralic demo, the Benchmark or the Chord Qutest.
Anybody have any thoughts on these?
rvpiano's avatar
rvpiano OP
938 posts
 
There’s also the question, will any of the above be significantly better than my Gumby, aside from the fact that they will decode hi res files?
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