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Best DAC for MacMini Under $1000

Currently I'm running my MacMini through a Musical Fidelity vLink and vDac - which has huge presence but also in your face harshness. I've also run MacMini via vLink to my Cambrige Audio player (with upsampling) which is like listening with a pillow over your head.

And finally, I'm running the MacMini via home network through a Bel Canto integrated with built it dac which sounds incredible, smooth, detailed, and full body to boot.

Looking for ideas on stand alone Dac $1000 or less to run between MacMini, Belles preamp and Martin Logans.

Suggestions?
cdc2
soix
2,133 posts
 
I had a chance to try a DAC3VB in my system a while back and I also thought it sounded fantastic. Since you like the sound of the DAC in your integrated so much maybe it's worth saving up for a bit for something like a used DAC3 (although I guess you'd also need a USB/SPDIF converter too if you don't have one)? That's what I'm doing anyway.

Short of that maybe something like a Metrum Octave or a Wavelength Proton? Best of luck.
cdc2 OP
70 posts
 
Soix - thanks and if anyone else has other suggestions, ideally I'm looking for a dac I can buy hear in the U.S.
bander's avatar
bander
334 posts
 
There's a used db Audio Labs Tranquility USB DAC for sale here now. No, I'm not the seller but it would be great bang for buck.
doggiehowser
672 posts
 
I'd look for a preowned DAC3/3VB/2.5 or 1.5 if you liked the Bel Canto sound.

I like the 3.5VB II.
roscoeiii's avatar
roscoeiii
1,155 posts
 
Tranquility is a good choice for sure if you are going USB only.

If you need multiple inputs, chuck out the Schiit Gungnir.

To get some great DSP capabilities, check out the DSPeaker Dual Core. An amazing sounding and amazingly versitile component.
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