2. digital
  3. 137011-115892

The big DAC decision

One of the challenges of building an audio system is trying to make sure that all of the individual components of that system have equivalent and compatible technical specifications. For example, it doesn’t make sense to purchase speakers that are capable of producing sound in the 5Hz to 20kHz range if your amp is only capable of sending audio signals in the 30Hz to 15kHz range to these speakers. Unless, of course, you hope to upgrade your audio system such that it can properly drive these speakers someday.

In my desire to build an audio system that has the proper balance of individual component capabilities I’ve found myself struggling over the choice of a DAC. Basic technical specifications aren’t necessarily applicable here. The foundation of my system is a Woo Audio WA-33 headphone amp and Focal Utopia headphones. My music files consist of standard CD 16bit/44kHz resolution to Hi-Res DSD files. What I’m struggling with is choosing a DAC that would allow me to get the most out of this amp and headphone pairing. From the research I’ve done so far it is clear that the $23k Meridian Audio Ultra DAC would bring out the best of any system it is connected to. But does it make sense to purchase a DAC of this quality (and price) for my humble headphone system? Or would it be more appropriate to get the Chord DAVE (setting the MQA format compatibility issue aside for this discussion)? I’m currently using an Oppo 105D as my DAC and the music sounds pretty decent, but I know my system can sound better.

So I was hoping to get some input from fellow audio enthusiasts out there to make what may be the most important decision of my system build. I’m also looking at getting a PS Audio DirectStream Power Plant 12 to power this system. Anyone out there have any suggestions or thoughts on this issue?


slvrsrfr
mahler123
633 posts
 
As has been mentioned, in the price range mentioned most DACs will sound very good.  The OP said he wants one that he can keep for years, so he or she might want to look at features.  I have a Bryston DAC 3 that has 4 HDMI inputs besides every other connection except Blue Tooth, and it doesn’t do MQA.  I use it primarily for the HDMI inputs:
1) to output the DSD from my SACDs using an Oppo 203 as a transport;
2) to connect Apple TV
3) connect a cable box
i also use the USB from my MacBook Air which is connected to my NAS.
Anyway, just a demonstration of how the features on that DAC are used.  They OP may want to evaluate what features are important to them
bona68's avatar
bona68
4 posts
 
"I agree. Though I think the new PC-3 SE Evo+ model is sufficiently good for my simple system, hence if I upgrade, I'll most likely go for that model."  

I honestly recommend. Earlier I also had a PC-3 Evo.:-)
melbguyone
294 posts
 
@bona68, sent PM so as not to derail this thread.
pgalvin
16 posts
 
It's possible the Kitsune version of the HoloSpring would sound as good as the $23K DAC and save you $20K.
Loving mine, best DAC that I've heard. Check out the reviews at the bottom of the product page...
https://kitsunehifi.com/product/springdacgreen/
audiotroy's avatar
audiotroy
1,621 posts
 
Guys the Lumin is an excellent choice.

In one simple elegant box you have everything you need. 

The X1 is both a streamer and a Dac.

It accesses everything you could want and it is backed up by a very large stable company. 

Sonically you would have to spend $7k or more to get a complicated multi box setup which might be better.


The older S1 has been a benchmark for years the new X1 brings the Lumin hardware up to an entirely new level.

Dave and Troy 
Audio Doctor NJ Lumin dealers
More to discover