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DAC for CD transport

Suggestion needed for DAC to be used with CD transport(either dedicated or dvd player as transport) around $1k range for 2nd system, not planning to use with PC.

And my current and previous source listed to understand my preference

Currently using Roksan kandy K3, like the sound, has plenty of air between instruments, extended treble and taut bass, vocals are good.

Previously used Audiolab 8200CD, had denser sound, lacking in instruments separation.

Heard Marantz cd-8005 during audition, it’s kind of thick voice.

DAC’s so for I am considering..

Line Magnetic LM-502CA

Audio gd NOS DAC-19

Teac UD-503

Rega Dac-R

Or should I go with another dedicated CD player?

advise needed, thanks

murgeshj
georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
4,966 posts
 
If playing Redbook cd 16/44 or 24/96 is your priority, the only one you mention that will do it justice is the Audio gd NOS DAC-19 (Burr-Brown PCM1704UK) as it uses 2r2 Multibit d/a converters all the others you mention are Delta Sigma, not as good for doing pcm Redbook. If DSD is your bag then you need a DAC that has Delta Sigma type converters

If you go for it make sure it’s the Audio GD NOS DAC-19 and not the Audio-GD NFB-2 DAC-19 series as this one is also Delta Sigma.

Cheers George
erik_squires
5,268 posts
 
On budget, the Parasound ZDac is suprisingly good sounding.

For Redbook, I'd stick to DAC's within the last 3 years. There are several that make CD's sound really good. Schiit, Mytek and others.


Best,


Erik
mb1audio
151 posts
 
"Currently using Roksan kandy K3, like the sound, has plenty of air between instruments, extended treble and taut bass, vocals are good.

Previously used Audiolab 8200CD, had denser sound, lacking in instruments separation. Heard Marantz cd-8005 during audition, it’s kind of thick voice."

For the most part, the dacs analog section is responsible for the qualities you list. If you like the sound of the K3 and want to take it further, look at a Wadia di122 or an Ayre Codex. Both are a little over your budget, so you may have to go used. If that's not an option, save up until you have enough. You won't be sorry. Those dac's are well worth the extra money.


pc123v
81 posts
 
Yay....my question exactly too. I am leaning towards the Teac UD501 or UD503 (new or used) or the Gustard a20h. Seeking dense, smooth, romantic and analogue sounding there. 
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