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Best USB DAC under $1000

My modded Music Hall just got trounced by a Cambridge 840C. The only thing that's keeping me from buying a cambridge is space. I'd like to use the digital out from my Denon DVD or from my PC into the DAC. It must have COAX, USB & Toslink inputs.
It appears the new Cambridge DAC has different processors? The Music Hall looks good but probably not as good. The Cayin gets good reviews too. The top of my list right now is the PSAudio iii. Any thoughts or other suggestions?
I'm looking for very even full response, neutral sounding but not dry. Thanks for the help.
elevick
vman71
218 posts
 
Another option is the Super Pro 707 DAC. I would recommend doing the modification to it to to bypass all passive components that act like filters and buffers by coming directly off the DAC chip.

This little DAC (the size of a cigarette pack) with the modification is outstanding.
buconero117
2,311 posts
 
cayin, better sound, value.
trianglezerius's avatar
trianglezerius
105 posts
 
I recently had a chance to hear what I consider the best (USB) DAC compared to a more expensive AMR and others. The Tranquility USB DAC even beat my modified JAS Musik 1.2. Its noise floor and clarity plus its sustain and decay, which was more like analog, were top notch. I'm getting one after the 1st of the yr and selling my CDP.
elevick OP
2,439 posts
 
Great responses. THANKS!
Considering that I used to have a CAL Alpha and am using the PS Audio as my base comparison, I have a lot of homework to do. I'll keep you folks posted.
flyfish2002's avatar
flyfish2002
94 posts
 
I will toss in my recomendation: audition an April Music Stello DA100 Signature. The MSRP fits your budget and I have found it a very musical DAC for a committed analog guy.
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