You don't provide much information. What components and system exactly did you listen to? If all were HQ components, wires etc., then go with the cheapest if you can't hear a difference. Good Luck. Craig
I am not a techie, however, the 256 I believe is referring to the digital filter for the bitstream DAC (oversampling), not the sampling rate (Mhz) of the DAC chip. The 1 bit dac (bitstream) probably samples at the redbook standard of 44.1 Mhz. They call the 256X oversampling "continuous calibration"; the 256 is an estimate. The typical CD player with a multi-bit DAC may have a 8X oversampling digital filter, and the DAC can sample up 96 Mhz.
Generally, true 24/96khz (or 192khz) Dacs are considered supereior, although some Bitstream/ Delta Sigma Dacs are also very well made. Sometimes it is confusing because 1 bit units are not always labled as "bitstream" Many "24/96 Capable" DACs are actually Delta/ Sigma bitsream Dacs. SACD is also a type 1 bit DAC but this is a completely different technology that has nothing to do with convetional D/A conversion at all. This system is supposed to be theoretically superior to all other types of conversion, but alas there are not too many SACDs available yet.
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