Proper DAC Upgrade for my modest system.


Looking for some advice from people with lots more experience then me

My local dealer has recommended the RME ADI-2 DAC, or the New NAD 658. Buying a DAC is "hard". But was looking for some veterans thoughts. The NAD I could replace the Yamaha Streamer and get some money back.

Anyone have an opinion of the Wadia 122 DAC? I got one on clearance so decided to pull the trigger, its 100% better then the Parasound zDac Gen 1 I was running, but making sure for around the $1200 ( My budget ) price point I am making the right buy.

System is WXC Streamer --> Wadia 122 DAC -->AVR/Pre-Amp - B&K 125.7 Bi amped to KEF R11’s via Rocket 44’s.

I use Tidal for all content - I don’t do anything other then stream Tidal and some Apple Music if certain songs / albums are not on Tidal. Some day I might progress into "higher res" but the cost of files seems a low ROI vs Tidal at the moment.

Appreciate everyone’s insight on this topic.
128x128crock442
You made a good choice. It is a better DAC than the zDAC as you have already observed and it matches your system well. Your KEF R11 speakers are no slouch. Just enjoy your music.
You made a good choice. It is a better DAC than the zDAC as you have already observed and it matches your system well. Your KEF R1
haha Solid advice, I pulled the trigger on the Wadia because I got it at a steal.. I think? I was just making sure in the say 800-1500 price range I wasn't missing some amazing purchase. It's only got about 30-40 hours on it right now and ( same with the speakers ) so it could sonically change for the better .... So I hear. haha

You don’t need to go north of 2500 Get a used chord Hugo 2, that dac will provide a definite sonic upgrade, or a used mytek Brooklyn+ both can be had used for under 2k
You don’t need to go north of 2500 Get a used chord Hugo 2, that dac will provide a definite sonic upgrade, or a used mytek Brooklyn+ both can be had used for under 2k

Not sure I want to, or would see the benefit of going that high in price point. Might stick with the Wadia for now and maybe upgrade to a true Pre Amp w/ Balanced connections, or a better amp like a PS A51+ 

Was trying to stay under the 1500 range given my current system