Ayre QB9 or Schiit Gungir Multibit

+1 Ayre

Actually, I would get an Ayre Codex.
A Schiit Gungnir Multibit or Yggy would be as close to the Ayre performance-wise.
The Ayre QB9 would smoke a Gungy-which is no slouch, I think the Yggy would give it a run for the money, IMHO.
I have owned the Schiit Modi, Bifrost, Gungnir-non Multibit and 2 Ayre Codex. The Ayre's have stayed. 
Bob

+1 Bob

At least the codex has one non USB input. I wish the Ayre dacs had more flexible inputs. 

+1 Ayre Codex DAC.  I own the Codex and like it very much.  Unfortunately, it only has USB and optical inputs but it is a wonderful sounding DAC for its price $1,995).   

Please see this link:

https://www.ayre.com/codex.htm

You can order a Gungnir for a 15-day trial (it will cost you 5% plus shipping if you send it back). There are two types of people: those who love the Schiit product line and those who hate them. Best if you listen for yourself.

I also vote for the QB-9. 

I've listened to the Gungnir Multibit on multiple occasions and own the QB-9 DSD. The Ayre sounds more polished and refined IMHO. I've also noticed that I don't need any additional reclockers / etc. in the playback chain between the computer and the DAC to get the best sound.

Hope this helps!

 

thanks it seems the Ayre is the ticket. now finding one.