Want to buy a high-end and excellent DAC, help plz


Hi
right now I want to upgrade my DAC so I can stop considering about source for a while

My taste: liquid, image, soundstage, detail, neutral.

I have in mind about the theta gen VIII or the accuphase DC - 101. However, I don't think i have a chance to listen to the demos so everyone's opinion is very important to me

Which one is better in your opinion? or do you know some DACs better than them?
plz give me your opinion

thanks
lobster_king
Lobster King, if your interested only in a solid state DAC I would recommend you look at my review of the Accustic Arts DAC MK3, which was my reference untill the Tube Hybrid. You could purchase one at a great price on the market right now.

I have had top end Accuphase pieces in my system in the past and have heard Theta gear in other systems and still think the AA DACS, to my ears, are more musical and still resolving compared to either brand.
However, I don't think i have a chance to listen to the demos so everyone's opinion is very important to me

Well I am not in your league (I could not justify such expense on a DAC) but assuming you really do welcome all opinions on this matter - I would say you have to absolutely do in home audition at this price. It will mostly come down to your taste and system synergy at this stratospheric level.
I just added a separate <$1000 but highly regarded single-tubed DAC to my otherwise pure SS system.

The result is radically different sounding for the better I would say and more like some very high end tube systems I've heard, but I think the relative quality judgment on my part is to some significant extent a result of personal taste in sound.

IS it possible you just need to try a different sounding DAC, not necessarily one that cost a fortune? Different DACs at any particular price point can and often do sound radically different.

If you need something pricey, I'd agree with Shadorne to do in-home auditioning to justify the cost. I for one would be interested in hearing about your findings.
If you want liquid the Theta Gen VIII v.2 is the why to go. I bought one a few months back and boy did it bring out the music on my CD's. There is a used one currently listed for a great price and for an additional $1500 you can have it upgraded to the V.2 which has a much better volume control and updates to the DAC's.

Something to check out if you can.
Thanks for all your help everyone. My current DAC is the audio prima MKII SE version. I love the DAC's sound alot, but I decide to sell it for an upgrading.
Does anyone have opinion about the accuphase DC-101? or other DACs?
your opinion is very important to me

My taste is (in order): soundstage, detail, liquid, image, airy, fullness.